2005 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
