2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 530. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
