2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Audi S8
To start off, 2008 Audi S8 is newer by 5 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 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 350 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2008 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 2008 Audi S8 | |
Make | Audi | Audi |
Model | A3 | S8 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5204 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 450 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 540 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |