2008 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 4 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), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (207 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2012 BMW M3.
Because 2012 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2772 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
