2002 Audi A8 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A8 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2710 mm |
