1978 Audi 100 vs. 2003 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1978 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Audi 100, 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, 2003 BMW 318 (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2003 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
