2009 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Audi R8

To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 523 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 245 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2012 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 523 2012 Audi R8
Make BMW Audi
Model 523 R8
Year Released 2009 2012
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 2497 cc 4200 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 420 HP
Torque 230 Nm 430 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automated manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1635 kg
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1930 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1252 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2649 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 90 L