2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 530
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 740 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 530 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 2003 BMW 530. 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, 2003 BMW 530 (501 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 501 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
