2009 Audi R8 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 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 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. 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 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
