2007 Audi S3 vs. 2008 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S3 (262 HP) has 87 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi S3 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 2008 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S3 | 2008 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 262 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
