2008 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Audi RS5
To start off, 2012 Audi RS5 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi RS5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi RS5 (354 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 BMW M3. (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi RS5 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi RS5 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2008 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi RS5 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, 2012 Audi RS5 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 RS5 (440 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi RS5 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 RS5 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | RS5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 354 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4625 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1372 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
