2009 Audi A3 vs. 2006 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 525 weights approximately 330 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 2006 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 2006 BMW 525. 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, 2006 BMW 525 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2006 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.2 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
