2008 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 10 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 145 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 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
