2007 Audi A3 vs. 1991 BMW 518
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 202 kg more than 1991 BMW 518.
Because 1991 BMW 518 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 1991 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1991 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
