2009 Audi S3 vs. 2008 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (322 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2009 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 490 kg more than 2009 Audi S3. 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, 2008 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi S3. (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi S3. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S3 | 2008 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
