1997 Audi A4 vs. 1998 BMW 317
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A4 (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Audi A4.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 1998 BMW 317 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 317 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |
