2003 Audi A8 vs. 2001 BMW X5
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW X5 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW X5 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW X5 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2003 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2001 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 93 L |
