2003 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| 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 | 228 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 14.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
