2005 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Audi S8
To start off, 2011 Audi S8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2011 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2011 Audi S8.
Because 2011 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2011 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2011 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
