2004 Audi A4 vs. 2003 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4, 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 A4 (235 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 2003 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
