2008 Audi A8 vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 242 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2001 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 2001 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 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 | 63 L |
