2006 Audi S3 vs. 2009 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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, 2009 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2009 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1670 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
