2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Audi S8
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 S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi S8 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S8 weights approximately 910 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 S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 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 S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S8 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 S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 13.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
