2005 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
