2009 Audi A8 vs. 2003 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 735 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2003 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
