1997 Audi A8 vs. 2009 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2009 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 2009 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2009 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
