2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 530
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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 530 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (251 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 40 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 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 530. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 530. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 530. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
