Tough competition conditions among car manufacturers force designers to use the most popular and popular solutions, which attracts new customers, but at the same time contributes to the loss of individuality of the final product. Only large auto giants, which include Audi and BMW, can afford certain deviations from given trends. In the families of both manufacturers, you can find models with an original appearance, innovative technological solutions. In each case, it will be a truly high-quality, soundly assembled and ergonomic machine. However, a detailed examination of the perception of cars is complicated, as some shortcomings are discovered. Since we are talking about the premium level and, accordingly, high prices, the question of choice arises quite logically: which is better - Audi or BMW? With all the superficial similarities in approaches to production, both companies attract fans with unique concepts in design and new developments in terms of functionality.
Pros and Cons of Audi
The specialists of this company pay a lot of attention to the technical implementation of the drive mechanism. Audi has traditionally maintained a balance between front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. The company uses many of its own successful developments, including the Quattro all-wheel drive system, which provides its carriers with decent dynamic and driving qualities. To understand the power potential of the structural base, it is enough to note that even an increase in engine power by 15-20 hp does not always provide an advantage to Bavarian competitors. Therefore, in evaluating the drive system and chassis, the question of which is better - Audi or BMW, is more likely to single out the company from Ingolstadt. Advantages of this brand include adaptive suspension with several modes that focus on different operating conditions. If we talk about the shortcomings, then in addition to high prices, considerable fuel consumption, individual ergonomic flaws and modest configurations in the basic delivery can be noted.
Pros and Cons of BMW
Immediately worth starting with the flaws, as they are most expressed by the owners. First of all, this is a fundamental difference with Audi in terms of drive implementation. BMW is betting on rear gears with the ability to connect the front axle. Fans of the brand, as a rule, are neutral towards this strategy, finding their advantages in it.
But for the average car owner, the same rear-wheel drive may require a period of getting used to. Many criticize the suspension for excessive stiffness - every bump is felt during the movement, although this is not a static “BMW” weak point, as you can reconfigure if necessary. Of course, the Bavarian models with the aforementioned shortcomings could not occupy such high positions in the automotive industry without noticeable advantages. The manufacturer is closely engaged in the development of advanced engines, improves the design of the chassis, does not forget about the development of design philosophy and stylistic performance. In view of this approach, it is very difficult to say unequivocally which car is better - Audi or BMW. Firstly, both lines are recognizable and unlike each other. Secondly, each model has its own shades, emphasizing its class and purpose. As for comparison, the Bavarians offer more brutal and even aggressive designs, while Audi focuses on quiet family exteriors.
Business sedan comparison
The best representatives of this segment in the lines of the manufacturers under consideration are Audi A6 and BMW 5. The advantages of the first model include good dynamics while maintaining a decent power reserve - with a 310-horsepower engine, the car accelerates in just 5.5 seconds to 100 km / h, which is good even for a small business sedan.
A solid leather and Alcantara finish also stands out. Among the weaknesses can be noted the abundance of electronics, which can make it difficult to get acquainted with the control system, not to mention the possible problems with the optional equipment. The Bavarian proposal benefits from a powerful diesel engine with low consumption - about 8 liters per 100 km. In terms of quality finishes, this version is also not much inferior to the competitor. Which is better - "Audi A6" or "BMW 5" in terms of data? Both options are not ideal in terms of management and implementation of the chassis. Nevertheless, if you need good dynamics, then the choice falls on Audi. Traction with economical consumption, on the contrary, bring to the forefront "BMW 5".
Premium Sedan Comparison
In this case, the flagships of companies represented by Audi A8 and BMW 7 draw attention to themselves. As for the Ingolstadt model, it is interesting in the first place with an all-wheel drive system, an 8-speed automatic transmission and a variety of motor ranges. By the way, a version with an extended base is available for a fee. The absence of modern technological solutions regarding the implementation of the multimedia complex only overshadows the impression, which may become a decisive factor in the choice of Audi A8 or BMW 7. Which is better in technical terms? The version from Bavarian engineers already in the base model has a record wheel class for 3210 mm for the class. This does not affect the solid dynamics at all - 4.5 seconds to 100 km / h. This is possible thanks to a 450 hp gasoline engine.
Crossover Comparison
“Audi Q5” at one time showed almost an exemplary performance of the crossover, which has been undergoing restyling for several years, without losing market demand.
The model was loved for the optimal combination of dimensions, dynamics and handling. This did not prevent the creators from providing the salon with a high-tech filling with premium decoration materials. The competitor in the form of the X3 model is slightly inferior in terms of control ergonomics, and is also famous for its increased comfort and capacity. But still, which is better - BMW X3 or Audi Q5? For the city, both options are optimally suited. The machines are small, maneuverable and balanced in design characteristics. But beyond the city limits, the Q5 crossover takes over (thanks to higher torque and manual gearbox).
Supercar Comparison
If in the above segments there can be competition between other series, the premium sports class offers piece models, in this case presented by Audi RS5 and BMW M3. The first version immediately comes forward in the amount of horsepower - 450 against 420 hp. However, in terms of dynamics and even traction, the difference between supercars is insignificant and comes down to the level of error. But the intensive work with manual gearbox on the "emka" makes itself felt by overheating, which does not add to its attractiveness. But there are other factors that make the answer to the question of which is better, “Audi” or “BMW” in the sports class ambiguous? Developers from Bavaria relied on tradition in interior design, providing the dashboard with a multitude of buttons, handles and displays. Ingolstadttsy adhered to a modern approach, optimizing management as much as possible. As practice shows, the second approach provided a more ergonomic configuration of interaction with the car, but the BMW offer attracted direct control lovers who like to independently control the road.
Comparison of electric vehicles
A solid justification in the BMW i3 electric car segment has long haunted the ideologists of the green concept at Audi headquarters. And now, a modification of the E-Tron based on A3 got involved in the competition of hybrids. The Bavarian version is characterized by increased mileage on a single charge up to 330 km, a volumetric luggage compartment of 260 liters and a modest energy consumption of 11 kWh per 100 km. But, of course, dynamics is crucial. Which is better, "Audi" or "BMW" in this indicator?
In the case of the E-Tron, it is 50 km and 130 km / h. The difference between the maximum speeds will be determined by the selected driving mode. As for the BMW, the peak speed mode of its development is at the level of 150 km / h. To this is worth adding a rich list of options and trim options. Nevertheless, many rely on the E-Tron. Why is Audi better than BMW? The main advantage is the range. The electrified A3 model is 100 km ahead of the Bavarian electric car in terms of mileage on a single charge.
How to make the right choice?
The choice is based on the tasks for which a car is purchased. Power, transmission implementation, dynamic performance, body type - all this should set the direction in the process of determining the right model. So, for universal needs, a standard middle class sedan may be suitable. Which is better - “Audi A4” or “BMW 3” for such purposes? If the emphasis is on general ergonomics, comfort and handling, then the choice should be made in favor of the first option. The version from BMW, in turn, is suitable for lovers of aggressive design, spacious salons and conservatism in terms of interior design.
Finally
In choosing a car, especially a premium level, the issue of cost is important. The same standard sedan in both lines can be estimated at 2-3 million rubles. The same applies to electric cars with crossovers, and supercars in other modifications are available for 10 million. In this regard, the price tags are approximately similar, but maintenance costs can vary. What is better to buy - “Audi” or “BMW”, so as not to go broke on the content? As shown by the practice of operation, machines of both manufacturers sin automatic transmission failures. But on the other hand, the Bavarians are good at mechanical units, which are often found in the models of this company. The weaknesses of Audi include problems with corrosion of individual body parts, which will also require updating costs.