2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 550
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 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 550 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 835 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 550 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 550. 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 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 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
