2007 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 318
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 29 kg more than 2007 Audi A3.
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, 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 318 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 318 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |