2009 Audi R8 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi R8 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
