2005 Audi S8 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi S8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2005 Audi S8. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi S8 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2011 BMW M3.
Because 2005 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW M3. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2005 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW M3. 2005 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW M3 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 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1655 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
