2002 Audi A8 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
