1998 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Audi A8
To start off, 2011 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A8 (372 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A8 weights approximately 745 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 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, 2011 Audi A8 (444 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2011 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2011 Audi A8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 318 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 372 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 2020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5268 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3122 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
