1995 BMW 317 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 436 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. 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 1995 BMW 317. 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 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317. 2012 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW 317 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:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 317 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2649 mm |
