2012 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 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 122 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 485 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2008 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
