2002 Audi R8 vs. 1997 BMW 318
To start off, 2002 Audi R8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi R8 (610 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 496 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 1443 kg more than 2002 Audi R8.
Because 2002 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi R8 (698 Nm) has 530 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm). This means 2002 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2002 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi R8 | 1997 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 610 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 698 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 63 L |
