2009 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 525
To start off, 2011 BMW 525 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
