2009 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Audi A8
To start off, 2011 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2011 Audi A8. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A8.
Because 2011 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 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, 2011 Audi A8 (550 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2011 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2011 Audi A8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
