2008 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Audi A8
To start off, 2011 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A8 (345 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 BMW M3. (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW M3.
Because 2011 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Audi A8 (800 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3. 2011 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2011 Audi A8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
