2006 Audi A3 vs. 2007 BMW 523
To start off, 2007 BMW 523 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,188 cc, 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2007 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2007 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 523 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2007 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 2497 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
