2004 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 6 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 50 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 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, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
