2005 Audi S8 vs. 2001 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi S8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi S8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi S8 weights approximately 475 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi S8 (450 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2005 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3. 2005 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi S8 | 2001 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1295 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
