2008 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Audi A5
To start off, 2012 Audi A5 is newer by 4 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Audi A5. (328 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A5 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2008 BMW M3.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A5, 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 Audi A5 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2012 Audi A5 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
