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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (207 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 75 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.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2772 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 14.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
