1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 94 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 318 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
