1998 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Fiat Barchetta
To start off, 2004 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 6 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2004 Fiat Barchetta.
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, 2004 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. (162 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2004 Fiat Barchetta | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 318 | Barchetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1755 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 47 L |
