2003 Audi A8 vs. 2002 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 368 kg more than 2002 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 318. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2002 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 | 2002 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
