Audi A4 vs BMW 3 Series: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Audi A4⁩ VS ⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦Audi A4⁩ VS ⁦BMW 3 Series⁩: the verdict

The BMW 3 Series emerges as the stronger contender for most KSA buyers, offering a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and value. Its lower price, more powerful engine, and superior fuel economy make it an attractive choice. However, the Audi A4 surprisingly boasts quicker acceleration, appealing to those prioritizing a swift sprint.
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Price Comparison
Starting at320,000 SAR260,000 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine1,984 cc · 4 cyl1,998 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)150 hp184 hp
Torque (Nm)270 Nm300 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.8 s7.1 s
Top Speed (Km/h)225 km/h240 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.9 L/100km5.5 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity54 L60 L
Gears78
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveRear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.8 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.8 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,515 kg1,450 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)460 L480 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAirbagsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCollision DetectionCruise ControlCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamps - Front OnlyFootwell LightsGas Shock AbsorberHDMIIlluminated Door HandlesImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear BlindsRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRun-Flat TyresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTrip ComputerTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheels - AlloyWinchWireless HeadphonesXenon Headlamps
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering LightsCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Value Seekers

The BMW 3 Series wins for value. Starting at 260,000 SAR, it offers a more powerful engine and better fuel economy than the A4, providing excellent bang for your buck.

2

Best for Driving Enthusiasts

The BMW 3 Series is ideal for enthusiasts. With its Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) configuration, 184 hp engine, and 8-speed transmission, it delivers a more engaging and dynamic driving experience.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The BMW 3 Series takes the lead in fuel efficiency. Achieving 5.5 L/100km, it offers better economy and a larger 60 L fuel tank, translating to fewer stops at the pump.

4

Best for Quick Acceleration

The Audi A4 is the winner for quick acceleration. Despite lower horsepower, the A4 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in a swift 5.8 seconds, making it quicker off the line than the 3 Series.

Pros & cons

Audi A4

Pros

  • Superior 0-100 km/h acceleration (5.8 seconds)
  • Front-wheel drive for predictable handling and stability
  • Heavier kerb weight (1,515 kg) potentially offering a more substantial road feel

Cons

  • Significantly higher price point (320,000 SAR)
  • Less powerful engine (150 hp)
  • Higher fuel consumption (5.9 L/100km)
  • Smaller trunk capacity (460 L)

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • More attractive starting price (260,000 SAR)
  • Higher engine power (184 hp) and torque (300 Nm)
  • Excellent fuel economy (5.5 L/100km)
  • Larger trunk space (480 L)
  • Engaging Rear Wheel Drive dynamics

Cons

  • Slower 0-100 km/h acceleration (7.1 seconds)
  • Rear-wheel drive characteristics may not suit all driving preferences

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series better value for money in KSA?

The BMW 3 Series offers significantly better value for money in KSA. With a starting price of 260,000 SAR compared to the Audi A4's 320,000 SAR, the BMW provides a more powerful engine (184 hp vs 150 hp) and better fuel economy (5.5 L/100km vs 5.9 L/100km) for a lower cost. For buyers prioritizing budget and overall package, the 3 Series is the clear winner.

Which car is faster, the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series?

Surprisingly, the Audi A4 is faster in terms of 0-100 km/h acceleration, achieving it in just 5.8 seconds compared to the BMW 3 Series' 7.1 seconds. While the BMW has a higher top speed and more horsepower, the A4 delivers a quicker sprint off the line. If immediate acceleration is your priority, the Audi A4 has the edge.

Which car offers better fuel economy, the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series?

The BMW 3 Series offers superior fuel economy, consuming 5.5 L/100km compared to the Audi A4's 5.9 L/100km. Additionally, the BMW has a larger fuel tank capacity of 60 L, allowing for longer distances between refills. For drivers focused on minimizing fuel costs and maximizing range, the BMW 3 Series is the better choice.

What are the main differences in driving experience between the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series?

The primary difference lies in their drivetrain. The Audi A4 features Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), offering predictable handling and stability, especially in varied conditions. The BMW 3 Series, with its Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) system, provides a sportier, more engaging, and dynamic driving experience favored by enthusiasts. Your preference for FWD stability or RWD sportiness will dictate which is better for you.