2006 BMW 523 vs. 2011 Audi A1
To start off, 2011 Audi A1 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2011 Audi A1. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 592 kg more than 2011 Audi A1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A1, 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, 2011 Audi A1 (250 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 2011 Audi A1 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 523 | A1 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3954 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1416 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2469 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 34 L |
