2008 Audi A8 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 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, 2008 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW M3. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
