Compare the2023 Audi TTVS 2023 BMW 4 Series Convertible

To provide maximum traction and stability on all roads, All-Wheel Drive is standard on the TT. But it costs extra on the 4 Series Convertible.

Both the TT and the 4 Series Convertible have standard driver and passenger frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, side-impact head airbags, front and rear seatbelt pretensioners, four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control, electronic stability systems to prevent skidding, post-collision automatic braking systems, daytime running lights, blind spot warning systems and rearview cameras.

The Audi TT’s engines use a cast iron block for durability, while the 4 Series Convertible’s engines use an aluminum block. Aluminum engine blocks are much more prone to warp and crack at high temperatures than cast iron.

The TTS’ standard 2.0 turbo 4-cylinder produces 33 more horsepower (288 vs. 255) than the 430i Convertible’s standard 2.0 turbo 4-cylinder.

On the EPA test cycle the TTS gets better fuel mileage than the M440i xDrive Convertible (23 city/31 hwy vs. 22 city/31 hwy).

To lower fuel costs and make buying fuel easier, the Audi TT uses regular unleaded gasoline (premium recommended for maximum performance). The 4 Series Convertible requires premium, which can cost 20 to 55 cents more per gallon.

The TT has a standard cap-less fueling system. The fuel filler is automatically opened when the fuel nozzle is inserted and automatically closed when it’s removed. This eliminates the need to unscrew and replace the cap and it reduces fuel evaporation, which causes pollution. The 4 Series Convertible doesn’t offer a cap-less fueling system.

The TT offers a standard sequential manual gearbox (SMG). With no clutch pedal to worry about and a fully automatic mode, an SMG is much more efficient than a conventional automatic but just as easy to drive. The 4 Series Convertible doesn’t offer an SMG or a conventional manual transmission.

The TT RS offers optional heat-treated ceramic brake rotors, which last ten to twenty times as long as conventional cast iron rotors, don’t rust, don’t fade during repeated high speed braking, and their lighter weight contribute to better braking, handling and acceleration. The 4 Series Convertible doesn’t offer ceramic brake rotors.

For better traction, the TT has larger standard tires than the 4 Series Convertible (245/40R18 vs. 225/45R18). The TT’s optional tires are larger than the largest tires available on the 4 Series Convertible (255/30R20 vs. 225/40R19).

The TT 45 TSFI’s standard tires provide better handling because they have a lower 40 series profile (height to width ratio) that provides a stiffer sidewall than the 430i’s standard 45 series tires. The TT’s optional tires have a lower 30 series profile than the 4 Series Convertible’s optional 40 series front and 35 series rear tires.

For better ride, handling and brake cooling the TT offers optional 20-inch wheels. The 4 Series Convertible’s largest wheels are only 19-inches.

The TT has a standard space-saver spare tire so you can replace a flat tire and drive to have the flat repaired or replaced. A spare tire isn’t available on the 4 Series Convertible; it requires you to depend on its run-flat tires, which limits mileage and speed before they are repaired. If a run-flat is damaged beyond repair by a road hazard your vehicle will have to be towed.

For better maneuverability, the TT’s turning circle is 3.3 feet tighter than the 4 Series Convertible’s (36.1 feet vs. 39.4 feet).

The Audi TT may be more efficient, handle and accelerate better because it weighs about 700 to 900 pounds less than the BMW 4 Series Convertible.

The TT is 1 foot, 10.9 inches shorter than the 430i, making the TT easier to handle, maneuver and park in tight spaces.

The TT Coupe’s standard folding rear seats are split to accommodate bulky cargo. The 4 Series Convertible’s standard single piece folding rear seat is not as flexible; long cargo and a passenger can’t share the rear seat.

Heated windshield washer nozzles are standard on the TT to prevent washer fluid and nozzles from freezing and help continue to keep the windshield clear in sub-freezing temperatures. The 4 Series Convertible doesn’t offer heated windshield washer nozzles.

To quickly and conveniently keep personal devices charged without cables tangling and wearing out, the Audi TT has a standard wireless phone charging system (Qi) in the center console. The 4 Series Convertible doesn’t offer wireless personal charging.

The TT will cost the buyer less in the long run because of its superior resale value. The IntelliChoice estimates that the TT will retain 49.37% to 49.87% of its original price after five years, while the 4 Series Convertible only retains 43.87% to 47.13%.

IntelliChoice estimates that five-year ownership costs (depreciation, financing, insurance, fuel, fees, repairs and maintenance) for the Audi TT will be $4924 to $6472 less than for the BMW 4 Series Convertible.

Consumer Reports® recommends the Audi TT, based on reliability, safety and performance.