2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 80 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 2008 BMW 523 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 2008 BMW 523. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 523 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 523 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |