2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 4 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 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 421 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 275 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 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2012 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | R8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
