2012 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (345 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A8 (800 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A8 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4134 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5136 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1948 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1461 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2992 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
