2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 545
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,390 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 545 weights approximately 490 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW 545 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW 545 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 | 2005 BMW 545 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 545 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 326 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 5.9 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 | 1175 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 11.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
