2004 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2011 Audi A3.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 BMW 318 (355 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3. 2011 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 318 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
