2002 Audi S3 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S3 weights approximately 28 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 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, 2002 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
