2009 Audi A8 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 55 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (201 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 1035 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
