2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 390 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 2009 BMW 525 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 2009 BMW 525. 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, 2009 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
