2006 Audi A3 vs. 2007 BMW 525
To start off, 2007 BMW 525 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2007 BMW 525. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 525 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2007 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
