2008 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW 118
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 118. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 118 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 118 weights approximately 57 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2004 BMW 118 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 2004 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 118. 2004 BMW 118 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 118 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 118 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 127 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
