2004 Audi A3 vs. 1999 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1999 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 1999 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 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1999 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
