1996 Audi A3 vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 5 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 255 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 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 BMW 318 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 318 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 217 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 | 1140 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |