1998 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 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 355 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. 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 1998 BMW 320. 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 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 320 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
