2001 Audi A8 vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 8 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 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, 2009 BMW X3 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2009 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2800 mm |
