2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 540
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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 540. 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
