2007 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 4 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 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2007 Audi A3.
Because 2007 Audi A3 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, 2007 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3187 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
