2007 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 41 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
