2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Audi S5
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi S5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi S5 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi S5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S5 (354 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S5 weights approximately 875 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi S5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S5 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, 2008 Audi S5 (441 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 Audi S5 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 354 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
