2003 Audi A8 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 8 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 49 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2011 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| 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 | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
