2008 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW 545
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 545 (325 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 545 weights approximately 500 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.
Because 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2004 BMW 545 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 545 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW 545 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 545 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
