Today, I test drove two excellent cars back to back. A black 2006 325i with sport and premium packages, and a black 2007 A4 2.0t Quattro with S-Line package, tiptronic and premium packages. I assumed that the BMW would demonstrate superior driving dynamics and enjoyment--I was wrong.
Let's compare the two:
Engines: Both engines (the 2.0t found in the Audi, as well as the 2.5L in the BMW have both been recognized by Ward's as 10Best engines, 2005 and 2006, respectively). Although both fantastic engines, there are differences. The 2.0t, being a turbocharged four, feels a lot peppier--like the power is more readily available.
Although turbo lag is virtually non-existant, you can still tell it's a high-revving, high-quality four cylinder. The Inline 6 in the BMW on the other hand feels a bit smoother and seamless in operation, as you'd expect, with little hesitation.
The Audi ironically felt considerably quicker, both off the line and in cruising; the powerband seemed endless and it was hard to believe at times it was a four cylinder. The I6, while power was avaible, felt more sluggish and hesistant. While clearly a top notch six cylinder, it lacked the "soul" and eagerness of the 2.0t.
Driving characteristics: Both felt very "Germanic" and sporty in their own right, but slighly different. As you know, the BMW is rear wheel drive while the Audi is all wheel drive. We've discussed many times the advantages and disadvantages of each. Many of you have criticized Audi for making front-heavy cars, that "aren't balanced".
I can personally attest that when behind the wheel of these two automobiles, the differences in "feel" are quite minimal. While the RWD may feel more athletic to some, the security and sure-footedness of Torsen all-wheel drive cannot be disputed, especially in the rainy conditions I was testing them in. The Audi definitely felt heavier, but also felt more tossable, next to the BMW.
Both cars offered excellent feedback in the form of steering (although the Audi's was lighter), braking, and handling. The A4 chassis felt more taut, and sports-oriented however.
Interior: No contest here; the Audi's fit, finish, materials, and execution were top notch, while the BMW's were marginal, to say the least. With S-Line package the car came with special titanium piping--attention was paid to the smallest of details such as the stitching of leather, titanium accents in places you wouldn't expect them, and the finest leather.
The BMW on the other hand, had a simpler, more detached feeling interior with a lot of sharp lines and angles. Although the leather was of great quality, the dashboard, buttons, steering wheel, shifter, even mirror, just felt cheap to me. I was disappointed and it was quite obvious BMW cost-cut here.
Price: Both nearly at $40,000, but ironically the Audi's lease rate came out slightly lower.
Bottom line: All in all, these are both fantastic automobiles. I'd definitely have to say that out of all of the cars I've personally driven in this segment, the Audi comes closest to BMW in matching driving dynamics.
If I had to choose a winner based on handling and sheer enjoyment, I'd definitely have to go with the Audi. It felt more sport-oriented and with the Quattro all-wheel drive was incredibly confidence-inspiring in the rain.