2004 Audi A3 vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2001 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 2001 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2001 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.6 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 | 1410 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
