2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 530
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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 365 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2003 BMW 530 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 530. 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 530 (501 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 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 530 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 530 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 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 501 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
