2001 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,695 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Audi A8 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3695 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
