Thinking about buying an Audi S5 Convertible? Compare it to a BMW 335s Convertible first!

The BMW 335s Overview

BMW's 3 Series Convertible, like every other 3 Series, has won more comparison tests than any other luxury compact. Many of these have pitted the 230-hp 328i against more powerful – and more expensive – competitors. Likewise, the 335i remains the standard for performance convertibles, and its new 300-horsepower TwinPower Turbo represents the ultimate in no-excuses response.

As with any 3 Series, the reason for that acclaim is easily explained. The 328i and 335i Convertibles have none of the typical convertible compromises of slow reflexes, sluggish acceleration, or softly sprung suspensions. These two are still, first and foremost, BMWs, and as such still offer all the performance expected of the Ultimate Driving Machines – they just add a dash of al fresco appeal. Combined with the standard power-driven retractable hard-top, the 328i and 335i truly do offer the best of both worlds.

And this year, the 320-hp 335is ups the ante for performance even further, ensuring even fewer challenges for drop-top supremacy. Thereby keeping the rest of the competition in its traditional place – right behind BMW's 3 Series.

The Audi S5 Overview

New for 2010, the S5 Cabriolet is based on the S5 Coupe, but combines a single drivetrain with a power cloth top. Audi claims the top is lighter, but with a curb weight of 4310 lbs, the drop-top 4-seater won't qualify as a lightweight.

While the coupe continues with the previous 4.2-liter V-8, the supercharged, direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6 from the S4 sedan also drives the new S5 3.0 TFSI. Its 333 horsepower goes to all four wheels via Audi's quattro system and a 7-speed S-tronic automatic. Unlike the S5 coupe, the Cabriolet offers no manual transmission. Audi's optional Sport Rear Differential dynamically apportions torque to either rear wheel, (similar to BMW's Dynamic Performance Control). The rag-top is lavishly equipped, even in standard form. It includes 19-inch wheels, Silk Nappa leather S-Design front sport seats with 12-way adjustment, split-folding rear seats with pass-through, Audi advanced key, and a head-level heating system for top-down driving.



BMW vs. Audi


What BMW offers…

  • The 335is offers a choice of either traditional 6-speed manual or new 7-speed Double-Clutch transmission.
  • With either transmission the 335is weighs close to 300 lbs less than the Audi.
  • Though both car's claim identical 5.2-second 0-60 times, the 320-hp Twin Turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 in the 335is offers a broader powerband, with 300 lb-ft of torque from 1400 – 5000 rpm.
  • With its temporary overboost software, the 335is puts out 370 lb-ft of torque, 45 lb-ft more than the Audi.
  • The 335is includes staggered-width 18–inch wheels as standard, with 19-inch staggered-width wheels optional, which are both functionally and aesthetically preferable.
  • 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.
  • The BMW also boasts larger brake rotors; 13.7-inch front with 13.2-inch rear.
  • BMW includes a 4-year/50,000-mile Full Maintenance Warranty

What Audi doesn’t…

  • The S4 offers Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive and 7-speed DSG as the only available drive system.
  • With its quattro all-wheel-drive and convertible chassis, the S5 weighs a whopping 4310 lbs.
  • Audi's supercharged V-6 puts out 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft., but it's 2900 – 5300 rpm torque spread can't match the BMW's, and can't outperform it in 0-60 mph acceleration.
  • Audi doesn't feature any kind of overboost software, so 325 lb-ft. is the maximum produced
  • Audi offers 19-inch wheels as standard, but the all-wheel-drive S5 wears the same size wheels and tires front and rear.
  • The S5's 7-speed S tronic transmission doesn't include Launch Control, and has been described as "lethargic" off the line (see quotes).
  • Despite its praiseworthy handling, several tests have complained about the S5's "artificial" steering feel.
  • The S5 stops with 13.6-inch fronts paired with 13.0-inch rears.
  • Audi offers the same warranty period, but includes no maintenance.

Don't settle for the ordinary, drive something extraordinary. Expect the ultimate in performance and service by purchasing a BMW.

Visit Irvine BMW today, where we provide premiere customer service, high quality BMW vehicles and products, along with factory-trained technicians.

We look forward to seeing you soon, Irvine BMW of Orange County.


"Quite simply, no other entry-level luxury model can match the 3 Series'

exquisite combination of athletic handling and premium ride comfort." – Edmunds.com

 

Irvine BMW proudly serves Orange County - including Aliso Viejo, Capistrano Beach, Dana Point, East Irvine, El Toro, Foothill Ranch, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, San Clemente, Lake Elsinore, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Juan Capistrano, Silverado and Trabuco Canyon.

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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.

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.