2012 Cadillac Escalade vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 1099 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Cadillac Escalade is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Cadillac Escalade. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Cadillac Escalade (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Cadillac Escalade | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Audi |
| Model | Escalade | A3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6200 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 403 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 565 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2489 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5144 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2007 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1928 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2946 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
