1996 Audi A4 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 A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1996 Audi A4.
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 A4, 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, 1996 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |
