2005 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW 318
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1996 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1996 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
