1997 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 15 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2012 Fiat 500. (101 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 349 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500, 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, 1997 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat 500. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 318 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
Make | BMW | Fiat |
Model | 318 | 500 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1368 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1096 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3546 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1628 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1519 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2301 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |