1998 BMW 317 vs. 1999 BMW 330
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. 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, 1999 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1999 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 317 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
