1998 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Dodge Stratus
To start off, 2002 Dodge Stratus is newer by 4 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Stratus (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 65 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Dodge Stratus, 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, 2002 Dodge Stratus (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Stratus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2002 Dodge Stratus | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 318 | Stratus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
