1991 BMW 318 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1991 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 864 kg more than 1991 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 318. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 318 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 2104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
