2002 Audi S3 vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2002 Audi S3 is newer by 1 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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2002 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 1117 kg more than 2002 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 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:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3936 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 2540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
