Thinking about buying an Audi S4? Compare it to a BMW 335is first!


The BMW 335is Overview
BMW's 3 Series isn't merely the best-selling member of the compact-luxury class, it's the best-selling luxury car in the world. The reason is simple: The 3 Series defines its class like no other vehicle. In fact one could argue that the entire compact sport-luxury class owes its existence to BMW's 3 Series.

And a quick look at the current examples illustrates why. The current range of 328i and 335i Sedans and Sports Wagons, both rear-drive and xDrive all-wheel-drive, seamlessly balance performance, efficiency, handling, luxury and practicality in an uncanny blend, often leaving their competition lacking in most, if not all, of those categories. These BMWs succeed in both expected and unexpected ways, often setting standards at both ends of the design spectrum.

The Audi S4 Overview
Audi introduced a reworked version, this time with its 4.2-liter V-8 replaced by a supercharged V-6. Like BMW's M3, Audi's S4 cuts across traditional competitive lines, and the 4-door sport sedan is often seen as a competitor to both coupes and sedans alike. A recent test by Car and Driver placed it ahead of BMW's 335i Sedan, based in part on the Audi's superior power. In fact, both cars shared billing on that magazine's 10Best list in the past (though the 3 Series has been on it 19 consecutive years). A supercharged, direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6 drives the current S4, putting out a healthy 333 horsepower. Power goes to all four wheels via Audi's quattro system, either through a 6-speed manual or 7-speed S-tronic automatic. Audi's optional Sport Rear Differential dynamically apportions torque to either rear wheel, (similar to BMW's Dynamic Performance Control) eliminating any complaints of understeer from the base S4. Standard equipment also includes 18-inch wheels

BMW vs. Audi S4

What BMW offers…

  • The 335is retains the traditional sport-oriented rear-drive chassis for maximum performance.
  • With either 6-speed manual or 7-speed Double-Clutch transmission, the 335is provides a near 50/50 weight distribution. And with a curb weight under 3600 lbs, the 335is weighs almost 400 lbs less than the Audi.
  • The twin turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 in the 335is is inherently smoother than Audi's supercharged V-6, and provides an exhilarating exhaust note, particularly on acceleration.
  • The 335is includes staggered-width 18–inch wheels as standard, with 19-inch staggered-width wheels optional, which are both functionally and aesthetically preferable.
  • With its temporary overboost software, the 335is puts out 370 lb-ft of torque, 45 lb-ft more than the Audi.
  • BMW's 7-speed Double Clutch Transmission also includes Launch Control for even quicker acceleration from a standing start.
  • The steering in BMW's 3 Series has always garnered praise for its excellent feel and precision.
  • BMW includes a 4-year/50,000-mile Full Maintenance Warranty

 

What Audi doesn’t…

  • Audi's S4 offers only the company's quattro all-wheel-drive system as the only available drive system.
  • Though significantly improved from Audi's past models, the S4's front-to-rear weight bias is still 55/45. And even with the move to a V-6 engine, the S4 still weighs 3924 lbs with its S-tronic gearbox.
  • Audi's supercharged V-6 can't match BMW's inline-6 for smoothness, it's been consistently criticized for its off-key exhaust note.
  • Audi offers a similar 18-inch standard/19-inch optional tire choice, but they are same size tires and wheels front to rear.
  • The S4's V-6 posts some impressive numbers, but its 325 lb-ft of torque trails the BMW during acceleration.
  • The S4's tronic gearbox includes automated shifting, but has no Launch Control feature.
  • Despite its praiseworthy handling, several tests have complained about the S4's "artificial" steering feel.
  • Audi offers the same warranty period, but includes no maintenance.


"The 335is's boost kick is tuned to fire up at higher gears in lower rpm ranges,

so you won't encounter it often on a racetrack, but when the tidal wave does hit,

it's a fantastic reward for pummeling the throttle."– Automobile

 

Shelly BMW proudly serves Orange County - including Anaheim, Atwood, Brea, Buena Park, Cypress, Diamond Bar, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Hawaiian Gardens, La Mirada, La Palma, La Habra, Lakewood, Midway, Placentia, Pomona, Rowland Heights, Stanton, Whittier, Westminster and Yorba Linda.

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Posted vehicle images and descriptions on our website is representative to what is provided by our suppliers. Please note that the actual vehicle may slightly differ from its specifications and/or images. The Dealership is not responsible for any typographical, pricing, product specifications, advertising or shipping errors. Advertised prices and availability are subject to change without notice.

In the event a vehicle is posted at an incorrect price due to these errors, or if an error in pricing was received from our suppliers, the Dealership reserves the right to refuse and/or cancel these orders.

Ask a Question

 

We will make our best efforts that posted prices are always accurate however, we are not responsible for any typographical or other errors that may appear on the site. If the posted price for a vehicle or service is incorrect due to a typographical or other error, such as data transmission, etc., this Dealership or Pixel Motion, Inc. are only responsible for the correct price, which will be provided as soon as we are made aware of such error(s). Ultimately, it is your responsibility to ensure that the information is 100% accurate with the Dealer.

Posted vehicle images and descriptions on our website is representative to what is provided by our suppliers. Please note that the actual vehicle may slightly differ from its specifications and/or images. The Dealership is not responsible for any typographical, pricing, product specifications, advertising or shipping errors. Advertised prices and availability are subject to change without notice.

In the event a vehicle is posted at an incorrect price due to these errors, or if an error in pricing was received from our suppliers, the Dealership reserves the right to refuse and/or cancel these orders.