2003 Audi A8 vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 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 (272 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2001 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 2001 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 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 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 | 2001 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
