2009 Audi A3 vs. 1987 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 64 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1987 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
