2003 Audi A8 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 6 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
