2003 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
