2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (251 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
