2009 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (246 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 3188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
