2009 Audi A4 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4, 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 A4 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
