2006 Audi A3 vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 5 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2001 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2001 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
