2004 Audi A3 vs. 2000 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 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 79 more horse power than 2000 BMW 318. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2000 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2000 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| 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 | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
