1997 BMW 318 vs. 2001 BMW 320
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1997 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2001 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2001 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
