2000 Audi A8 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2000 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi A8 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2000 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2000 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2000 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
