1998 Audi A3 vs. 1987 BMW 318
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A3 weights approximately 174 kg more than 1987 BMW 318.
Because 1987 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 1987 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1987 BMW 318 (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Audi A3 | 1987 BMW 318 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 318 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 966 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |