2007 Audi S8 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi S8 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2007 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S8 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2007 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S8 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
