2008 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Audi S5
To start off, 2011 Audi S5 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi S5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S5 (354 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi S5 weights approximately 475 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi S5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S5 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, 2011 Audi S5 (440 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2011 Audi S5 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 354 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4625 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1372 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
