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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 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 55 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 (240 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 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. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
