2005 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 318
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1996 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A4 (230 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
