2003 Audi A4 vs. 1987 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 Audi A4 is newer by 16 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 1 more horse power than 2003 Audi A4. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A4 weights approximately 329 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, 2003 Audi A4, 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A4. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A4 | 1987 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 113 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
