2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 545
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 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 545 weights approximately 530 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2003 BMW 545 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 545. 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 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW 545 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 545 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 328 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
