2008 Audi A3 vs. 2007 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 550 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 550 weights approximately 230 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 2007 BMW 550 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 2007 BMW 550. 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, 2007 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2007 BMW 550 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. 2007 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 2007 BMW 550 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 550 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 198 HP | 362 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 490 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5.9 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 | 1430 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |