1995 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Audi A8
To start off, 2011 Audi A8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A8 (372 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1995 BMW S3. (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A8 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1995 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Audi A8 (444 Nm) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2011 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2011 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2011 Audi A8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | S3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 372 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 2020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5268 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3122 mm |
