2009 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,772 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (207 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2772 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
