1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Audi A4
To start off, 2012 Audi A4 is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A4 (211 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A4 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi A4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A4 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, 2012 Audi A4 (349 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2012 Audi A4 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. 2012 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2012 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 318 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
