2003 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 9 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 144 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (276 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
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 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi R8. (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi R8. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi R8 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 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | R8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.4 L/100km | 21.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
