2008 Audi A3 vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 2 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 2010 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 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, 2010 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2010 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. 2010 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2010 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 400 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3066 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
