1996 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1996 Audi A8.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 67 L |
