2011 Audi S3 vs. 2010 Audi S8
To start off, 2011 Audi S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Audi S8 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2010 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 2011 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi S3 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2010 Audi S8.
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, 2010 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi S3. (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi S3. 2010 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Audi S3 | 2010 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S3 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
