2009 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (372 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A8 weights approximately 670 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 2012 Audi A8 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, 2012 Audi A8 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 A8 (444 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
Make | Audi | Audi |
Model | A3 | A8 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 372 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 444 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5268 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1948 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3122 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |