2007 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 BMW 525 is newer by 5 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 BMW 525. (217 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 525.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 525. 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, 2012 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 2012 BMW 525 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. 2012 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
