2003 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 5 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 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 318 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1895 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |