2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 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 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
