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 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2009 Audi A8. 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 140 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 | 2966 cc | 3188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 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 | 1830 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
