1998 BMW 318 vs. 1983 Chrysler Laser
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Chrysler Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Chrysler Laser would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Chrysler Laser (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Chrysler Laser should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1983 Chrysler Laser.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Chrysler Laser, 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, 1983 Chrysler Laser (217 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1983 Chrysler Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1983 Chrysler Laser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 318 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
