2009 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,696 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. 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 (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3696 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
