2006 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP) has 163 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 455 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 550 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 550. 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 550 (489 Nm) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (280 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 550 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 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1947 cc | 4800 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 360 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 5.5 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 | 1275 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
