2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2003 BMW 318.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 BMW 318 (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2003 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
