1998 BMW 318 vs. 1983 Ferrari 208
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 208 (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1983 Ferrari 208.
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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ferrari 208. (170 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1983 Ferrari 208 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 318 | 208 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2350 mm |
