2009 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Audi S3
To start off, 2009 BMW 520 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 BMW 520. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 520 weights approximately 162 kg more than 2004 Audi S3.
Because 2004 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 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 BMW 520 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 520 | 2004 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 520 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
