2005 Audi S8 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 7 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, 2012 BMW X3 (311 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2005 Audi S8. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2005 Audi S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are all wheel drive (AWD) - 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, 2012 BMW X3 (630 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi S8. (450 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi S8 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1925 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
