1997 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1997 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (321 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2006 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 318 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
