2003 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2012 BMW 118. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2012 BMW 118. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 118 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
