1998 Audi S8 vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi S8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 79 more horse power than 2011 BMW X3. (256 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1998 Audi S8.
Both vehicles are all wheel drive (AWD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 BMW X3 (560 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi S8. (557 Nm). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 256 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | AWD | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2810 mm |
