2003 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2008 BMW 540.
Because 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 540. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 540 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 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
