1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Audi R8

To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 320 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2012 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2012 Audi R8
Make BMW Audi
Model 316 R8
Year Released 1990 2012
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1596 cc 4200 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 420 HP
Torque 141 Nm 430 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automated manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1635 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4435 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1930 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1252 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2649 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 90 L