2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 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 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 360 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
