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, 1998 BMW 318 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 30 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, 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 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 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |