2003 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Audi S8
To start off, 2012 Audi S8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi S8 (513 HP) has 171 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (342 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi S8 will offer significantly more control. 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 Audi S8 (650 Nm) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm). This means 2012 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2012 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2012 Audi S8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 513 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5131 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1948 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2992 mm |
