German Car Zone

I don't know if there are any benefits, but perhaps Audi's typically have a 60/40 weight distribution because most of them employ AWD, maybe the AWD system means Audi has to push the engine forward? I can't say for sure though, I'm no technical expert..

More interior space. That layout is better for family cars where performance is not a factor. While BMW try to add a touch of sportyness to all their cars.

Very logical theory. Porsche Ferdinard constructed the Beetle with the engine in the rear for more interior space.

Interior space is also the reason why John Cooper mounted the engine in the Mini sidewise(can't fint the correct word right now)

Clarkson gives a brief explenation here( at 2:54):

Update:

52.8/47.2 % - AC Schnitzer 6er Tension

Audis are front heavy cause the torsen differentials take a lot of space and the engine has to be mounted over the front axis.
Now that new models (A5 beeing the first of them) are designed to use Torsen C , the engine will be moved to the rear of the car thus improving the distribution.
BTW Audi Q7 has 52/48 front/rear cause the differential can be placed furter to the rear (lots of space cause it's a very big vehicle).

New:

43.5/56.5 % - Gallardo Superleggera