1996 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 214 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
