2009 Audi A3 vs. 2000 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2000 BMW 520. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 520 weights approximately 740 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2000 BMW 520 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 2000 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2000 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
