2009 Acura RDX vs. 2003 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Acura RDX is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RDX (237 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 71 kg more than 2009 Acura RDX.
Because 2009 Acura RDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RDX 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura RDX. (260 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura RDX. 2009 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RDX | 2003 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Acura | Audi |
| Model | RDX | A8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1784 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 90 L |
