2007 Audi R8 vs. 1998 BMW 317
To start off, 2007 Audi R8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi R8 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi R8 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 317. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi R8 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, 2007 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi R8 | 1998 BMW 317 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | 317 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2730 mm |
