2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW X5
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 X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X5 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 650 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 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 X5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 2195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 93 L |
