2004 Audi A8 vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2005 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 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, 2004 Audi A8 (360 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW M3. (337 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
