2003 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW 335
To start off, 2012 BMW 335 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 335 (320 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 335 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2003 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 335 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 2012 BMW 335. 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, 2012 BMW 335 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 335 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 335 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 BMW 335 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 335 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1372 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.2 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 57 L |
