2003 Audi A8 vs. 2013 BMW M3
To start off, 2013 BMW M3 is newer by 10 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M3 (408 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M3 weights approximately 10 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 2013 BMW M3 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 2013 BMW M3. 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, 2013 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2013 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2013 BMW M3 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 | 2013 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| 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 | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4618 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1418 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.2 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.7 L/100km | 15.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
