2006 Audi S3 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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, 2006 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi S3 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | S3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2170 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 222 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1670 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |