Contemplating 2010 Audi A5 or BMW Coupe 328i

MaybeBIM · 11-24-2009, 04:22 AM

Hello All,

Before test driving later this month, I've been researching on these two cars. I've driven cars from Japan, Korea, and USA and now is the time to buy my first European car. These two cars were my first choices because of their small size, powerful engines and fuel efficiency. I was thinking primarily the Audi A5, however, I've been hearing about reliability problems that doesn't get better after the years. I'm shocked to hear that people with new 2.0t A4 and A5's are burning a quart every 5000 miles with their new engines. Anyone here having any major problems with their 328i's? Is there any quality/reliability problems I should be concerned about before spending my savings on one? According to consumer reports, it looks like BMW cars have better reliability than Audi/VW products.

Thanks in Advance,

Mike

ptack · 11-24-2009, 06:13 AM

Neither car is exactly small. Unless you're looking at a 328xi, I would think that the A5 is quite a bit more money. It also drives better, looks better and has a nicer interior. I almost bought one, but it's not exactly sporty so it just didn't do it for me. Because there seem to be so few A5s out there, I almost never see much posted about them on the Audi forums so I don't know if there are common problems.

MrHarris · 11-24-2009, 06:28 AM

If you got the money get the A5.

DFW_M · 11-24-2009, 07:45 AM

I have read about the oil thing on a few forums and it appears that it is common for the first 5000 mile period.
FYI, my previous vehicle was the 325i (2006) and first 7500 miles I had to add a quart of oil twice... After that it would come just close to the MIN (never below) before every scheduled oil change...

graider · 11-24-2009, 11:41 AM

A5

shipill · 11-24-2009, 11:50 AM

A5>328

footie · 11-24-2009, 12:18 PM

I would imagine that the A5 would have much better acceleration and economy but the BMW would have the sweetier note and smoother power delivery. Looks is very objective, to me the A5 is probably Audi's second best looking car after the R8, which means in my mind it's far superior than the 3 series, again the inside is a personal taste thing so you either like it or you don't. Space is one area where the A5 is poor next to the BMW, in the rear it's very tight and if you have a six footer in the driver's seat I doubt anyone would be comfortable in behind them.

I had an S5 and honestly thought it was one of the best cars I owned, with a great ride quality, quiet motorway driving, brilliant stereo and a nice note when you floor it.

What ever you decide I don't think you can make a bad decision as they are both great cars to own.

Spec 1 · 11-24-2009, 12:22 PM

To answer your question, the current line of BMW 3 series have fuel pump failure issues, seeming to affect 1 in 3 vehicles. It is covered under warranty (50k miles) but may leave you stranded somewhere.

Zephyr15 · 11-24-2009, 12:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Spec 1

To answer your question, the current line of BMW 3 series have fuel pump failure issues, seeming to affect 1 in 3 vehicles. It is covered under warranty (50k miles) but may leave you stranded somewhere.

But this does not effect the 328 models because they do not have the high pressure fuel pump that is causing the problems. FWIW, the warranty is 100k miles.

Ron1n · 11-24-2009, 12:59 PM

If those are your choices, go A5.

fatmatt0116 · 11-24-2009, 01:12 PM

I test drove an S5, that thing sucked azz.

MaybeBIM · 11-24-2009, 01:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatmatt0116

I test drove an S5, that thing sucked azz.

Can you explain why you think that?

Quote:

Originally Posted by ptack

Neither car is exactly small. Unless you're looking at a 328xi, I would think that the A5 is quite a bit more money. It also drives better, looks better and has a nicer interior. I almost bought one, but it's not exactly sporty so it just didn't do it for me. Because there seem to be so few A5s out there, I almost never see much posted about them on the Audi forums so I don't know if there are common problems.

Actually, the Audi A5 and 328i Coupe are similarly priced. So I'm guessing that the 328i are sportier? Sounds good. Thanks.

Quote:

Originally Posted by footie

I would imagine that the A5 would have much better acceleration and economy but the BMW would have the sweetier note and smoother power delivery. Looks is very objective, to me the A5 is probably Audi's second best looking car after the R8, which means in my mind it's far superior than the 3 series, again the inside is a personal taste thing so you either like it or you don't. Space is one area where the A5 is poor next to the BMW, in the rear it's very tight and if you have a six footer in the driver's seat I doubt anyone would be comfortable in behind them.

I had an S5 and honestly thought it was one of the best cars I owned, with a great ride quality, quiet motorway driving, brilliant stereo and a nice note when you floor it.

What ever you decide I don't think you can make a bad decision as they are both great cars to own.

Quote:

Originally Posted by dr325i

I have read about the oil thing on a few forums and it appears that it is common for the first 5000 mile period.
FYI, my previous vehicle was the 325i (2006) and first 7500 miles I had to add a quart of oil twice... After that it would come just close to the MIN (never below) before every scheduled oil change...

So I'm guessing the Oil burning is normal for German cars? I guess it'll get better after 10k miles I hope. I do agree that the Audi A5 exterior is nicer, however, I think the 328i interior is better.

Anyway guys, thanks you all for your honest opinions.

coh4777 · 11-24-2009, 01:47 PM

I would go for the A5.

maswastage · 11-24-2009, 04:27 PM

Unless aesthetics are at the top of your priorities, I suggest the 328i.

mmm def · 11-24-2009, 04:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Spec 1

To answer your question, the current line of BMW 3 series have fuel pump failure issues, seeming to affect 1 in 3 vehicles. It is covered under warranty (50k miles) but may leave you stranded somewhere.

the HPFP on the 335 is 10 yr 120k miles now.

DFW_M · 11-24-2009, 04:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mmm def

the HPFP on the 335 is 10 yr 120k miles now.

which means they are NEVER going to figure out how to fix it...

SlickShift · 11-24-2009, 07:24 PM

If you want something a little better looking and unique go with the A5. If you want a driving experience go with the bimmer. I test drove an A5 when I was looking for a new car and the A5 felt a little hefty compared to the 328i I rest drove as well (and that was with the V6 in the A5).

Ender514 · 11-24-2009, 07:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MrHarris

If you got the money get the A5.

Quote:

Originally Posted by graider

A5

Quote:

Originally Posted by shipill

A5>328

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bryan0102

A5! last night i was next to a white one with 20' black rims, a drop, CF diffuser with GTR SIZED exhaust. it was so crazy

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ron1n

If those are your choices, go A5.

Quote:

Originally Posted by coh4777

I would go for the A5.

wow, all that from a bimmer forum. thats not saying much about the 328

and i also would pick the A5

ptack · 11-24-2009, 08:24 PM

Wow, I didn't realize they now offer the A5 with just the 2.0. That must be a snooze. I thought the 3.2 felt comparable to a N52 equipped BMW (but more expensive). I wouldn't consider the base A5 unless you are absolutely certain you could live a very sexy, but relatively slow sports coupe. I'm not that laid back.

Technic · 11-24-2009, 08:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ptack

Wow, I didn't realize they now offer the A5 with just the 2.0. That must be a snooze. I thought the 3.2 felt comparable to a N52 equipped BMW (but more expensive). I wouldn't consider the base A5 unless you are absolutely certain you could live a very sexy, but relatively slow sports coupe. I'm not that laid back.

That 2.0T is deceptively comparable to the 3.0L of the 328i, actually having more torque at much lower rpm than either the 328i and the A5 3.2L. And just $600 will make that 2.0T a 234hp/333lbft engine... that and Quattro means anything but a snooze.

To the OP: go with the A5...

fatmatt0116 · 11-24-2009, 09:07 PM

[QUOTE=MaybeBIM;6262214]Can you explain why you think that?

the clutch was horrible, it just felt awkward, a real impediment to enjoying the car. Further, I expected at least a decent exhaust note -- there is none. I didn't get to take it out on the highway so I can't comment on the top end, I'm betting it is decent though. Aside from the quad pipes, I don't believe there is much to separate it from the base model. I find the looks attractive but also a bit plain and too conservative for my tastes. For around 65 k I'd be looking at a used Carrera 4S instead. I will say that the cabin was cushy, comfortable, and luxurious: this is no young man's car. A german version of the lexus sc of sorts, for some reason with a manual version.
I also drove a TT-S which is a flat out embaressment -- it is similar to driving a Honda Prelude only slower and sticker price is upwards of 50k. It looks nice though.

Why not go with a CPO version of a better car? 335?

Ti335 · 11-24-2009, 09:08 PM

A5 is a 4-cylinder car based on a FWD platform. Essentially, it's a very nice econobox. No real car enthusiast would pick that over a RWD car with an I6.

11-24-2009, 04:22 AM	#1
MaybeBIM New Member 5 Rep 10 Posts Drives: No Bimmer Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Kentucky iTrader: (0)	Contemplating 2010 Audi A5 or BMW Coupe 328i Hello All, Before test driving later this month, I've been researching on these two cars. I've driven cars from Japan, Korea, and USA and now is the time to buy my first European car. These two cars were my first choices because of their small size, powerful engines and fuel efficiency. I was thinking primarily the Audi A5, however, I've been hearing about reliability problems that doesn't get better after the years. I'm shocked to hear that people with new 2.0t A4 and A5's are burning a quart every 5000 miles with their new engines. Anyone here having any major problems with their 328i's? Is there any quality/reliability problems I should be concerned about before spending my savings on one? According to consumer reports, it looks like BMW cars have better reliability than Audi/VW products. Thanks in Advance, Mike
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11-24-2009, 06:13 AM	#2
ptack Brigadier General 306 Rep 4,483 Posts Drives: 135i Join Date: May 2008 Location: NJ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135i [6.50]	Neither car is exactly small. Unless you're looking at a 328xi, I would think that the A5 is quite a bit more money. It also drives better, looks better and has a nicer interior. I almost bought one, but it's not exactly sporty so it just didn't do it for me. Because there seem to be so few A5s out there, I almost never see much posted about them on the Audi forums so I don't know if there are common problems. __________________ 135i, SGM, Coral, Sport Package, Auto, Premium Hifi, USB/ipod, Apex EC-7s, PPK Stage II
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11-24-2009, 06:28 AM	#3
MrHarris yodog 202 Rep 5,021 Posts Drives: '86 Corolla Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Diamond Bar, Ca iTrader: (5) Garage List 2009 BMW [10.00]	If you got the money get the A5. __________________ 2009 E92 M3 \| Alpine White \| Black Extended \| Advan RS \| Turner Test Pipes \| Dinan Axle-Back \| OETuning \| Eibach Springs \| UUC SSK \| VRS Front Lip \| VRS Type I Diffuser \| Matte Black \| RPi Scoops \| MS Filter \| Yokohama AD08 \| F1 Pinnacle Special Thanks: Gintani \| OETuning \| eAs
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11-24-2009, 07:45 AM	#4
DFW_M Major General 1795 Rep 6,672 Posts Drives: 991.1 C2Sc Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Dallas, TX iTrader: (4)	I have read about the oil thing on a few forums and it appears that it is common for the first 5000 mile period. FYI, my previous vehicle was the 325i (2006) and first 7500 miles I had to add a quart of oil twice... After that it would come just close to the MIN (never below) before every scheduled oil change...
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11-24-2009, 11:41 AM	#5
graider Colonel 35 Rep 2,406 Posts Drives: py/kiwi e46 m3 Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: toronto iTrader: (0)	A5
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11-24-2009, 11:50 AM	#6
shipill Major 440 Rep 1,292 Posts Drives: F10 528 Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: East iTrader: (7)	A5>328
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11-24-2009, 12:18 PM	#7
footie Major General 1232 Rep 8,034 Posts Drives: i5M60 Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: No where fast iTrader: (0) Garage List 2024 BMW i5M60 [0.00] 2022 BMW i4M50 [0.00] 2020 BMW M5 Competi ... [0.00] 2008 E92 M3 [0.00]	I would imagine that the A5 would have much better acceleration and economy but the BMW would have the sweetier note and smoother power delivery. Looks is very objective, to me the A5 is probably Audi's second best looking car after the R8, which means in my mind it's far superior than the 3 series, again the inside is a personal taste thing so you either like it or you don't. Space is one area where the A5 is poor next to the BMW, in the rear it's very tight and if you have a six footer in the driver's seat I doubt anyone would be comfortable in behind them. I had an S5 and honestly thought it was one of the best cars I owned, with a great ride quality, quiet motorway driving, brilliant stereo and a nice note when you floor it. What ever you decide I don't think you can make a bad decision as they are both great cars to own. Last edited by footie; 11-24-2009 at 01:02 PM..
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11-24-2009, 12:22 PM	#8
Spec 1 Faster in the Corners 58 Rep 1,062 Posts Drives: '91 E30, '05 ZX6-R, '06 300C Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Portland, OR iTrader: (0)	To answer your question, the current line of BMW 3 series have fuel pump failure issues, seeming to affect 1 in 3 vehicles. It is covered under warranty (50k miles) but may leave you stranded somewhere. __________________ '91 M42 E30 - All sorts of goodies.
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11-24-2009, 12:59 PM	#10
Ron1n Speed Demon 220 Rep 3,690 Posts Drives: 2021 M5C Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Irvine iTrader: (6) Garage List 2021 M5 Competition [0.00] 2016 BMW 550i [0.00] 2011 335is [0.00] 2009 E93 M3 [10.00] 2010 335d [9.50]	If those are your choices, go A5. __________________ Current: '21 M5C, '15 X6 50i Previous: '18 M550i, '16 550i, '11 335is, '09 E93 M3 DCT, '10 E90 335d, '07 E90 328i
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11-24-2009, 01:12 PM	#11
fatmatt0116 Hooligan 58 Rep 680 Posts Drives: 2014 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Boston, MA iTrader: (0)	I test drove an S5, that thing sucked azz. __________________ 2014 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S 2011 X5 5.0 Dinan - SOLD 2007 Imola Red Z4 M Coupe -SOLD 2004 Navy Blue BMW 325Ci
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11-24-2009, 01:47 PM	#13
coh4777 Lieutenant 34 Rep 533 Posts Drives: 07 BMW 335i Coupe Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Vegas iTrader: (0)	I would go for the A5. __________________ COH4777 2007 335i Coupe - Jet Black / Coral Red / Aluminum Trim / 6MT / Sport / Premium / CA / Navi / iPod + USB
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11-24-2009, 04:27 PM	#14
maswastage Resident Diesel Junkie 56 Rep 1,070 Posts Drives: 2010 AW 335d Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Maryland iTrader: (0)	Unless aesthetics are at the top of your priorities, I suggest the 328i.
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11-24-2009, 07:24 PM	#17
SlickShift Lieutenant Colonel 335 Rep 1,806 Posts Drives: '11 BMW E90 M3 ZCP, '21 X5 ZMP Join Date: May 2007 Location: Atlanta iTrader: (7)	If you want something a little better looking and unique go with the A5. If you want a driving experience go with the bimmer. I test drove an A5 when I was looking for a new car and the A5 felt a little hefty compared to the 328i I rest drove as well (and that was with the V6 in the A5). __________________ -Nick 2018 BMW 440i - M Sport, Exec Glacier Silver Metallic/Coral Red Dakota Retired: '00 323i, '06 325Ci, '09 135i, '06 Z4M Roadster, '93 525i, '76 2002, '14 X1, '14 M235i, '16 X4, '16 435i
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11-24-2009, 08:24 PM	#19
ptack Brigadier General 306 Rep 4,483 Posts Drives: 135i Join Date: May 2008 Location: NJ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135i [6.50]	Wow, I didn't realize they now offer the A5 with just the 2.0. That must be a snooze. I thought the 3.2 felt comparable to a N52 equipped BMW (but more expensive). I wouldn't consider the base A5 unless you are absolutely certain you could live a very sexy, but relatively slow sports coupe. I'm not that laid back. __________________ 135i, SGM, Coral, Sport Package, Auto, Premium Hifi, USB/ipod, Apex EC-7s, PPK Stage II
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11-24-2009, 09:07 PM	#21
fatmatt0116 Hooligan 58 Rep 680 Posts Drives: 2014 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Boston, MA iTrader: (0)	[QUOTE=MaybeBIM;6262214]Can you explain why you think that? the clutch was horrible, it just felt awkward, a real impediment to enjoying the car. Further, I expected at least a decent exhaust note -- there is none. I didn't get to take it out on the highway so I can't comment on the top end, I'm betting it is decent though. Aside from the quad pipes, I don't believe there is much to separate it from the base model. I find the looks attractive but also a bit plain and too conservative for my tastes. For around 65 k I'd be looking at a used Carrera 4S instead. I will say that the cabin was cushy, comfortable, and luxurious: this is no young man's car. A german version of the lexus sc of sorts, for some reason with a manual version. I also drove a TT-S which is a flat out embaressment -- it is similar to driving a Honda Prelude only slower and sticker price is upwards of 50k. It looks nice though. Why not go with a CPO version of a better car? 335? __________________ 2014 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S 2011 X5 5.0 Dinan - SOLD 2007 Imola Red Z4 M Coupe -SOLD 2004 Navy Blue BMW 325Ci
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11-24-2009, 09:08 PM	#22
Ti335 Lieutenant 40 Rep 427 Posts Drives: E90 335i Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Toronto iTrader: (0)	A5 is a 4-cylinder car based on a FWD platform. Essentially, it's a very nice econobox. No real car enthusiast would pick that over a RWD car with an I6.
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