2009 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 465 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2005 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 2005 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2005 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
