2003 Audi A8 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 5 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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 590 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 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2003 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. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
