2007 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP) has 25 more horse power than 2007 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2007 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 523 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 523 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
