1997 Audi A4 vs. 2009 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 12 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 318. 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, 2009 BMW 318 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2009 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
