2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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, 1996 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 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 |
