2006 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 2 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 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2008 BMW 530 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 2008 BMW 530. 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, 2008 BMW 530 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
