1998 BMW 318 vs. 1999 Lotus M250
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
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 Lotus M250 (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1999 Lotus M250 | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 318 | M250 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1180 mm |
