2006 Audi A8 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 8 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 4,179 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2006 Audi A8.
Because 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2006 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. 2006 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4179 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 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 | 52 L |
