1996 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Fiat Punto
To start off, 2003 Fiat Punto is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Punto. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 585 kg more than 2003 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Punto, 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, 1996 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Punto. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 2003 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 318 | Punto |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1240 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 47 L |
