1998 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Renault Fluence
To start off, 2004 Renault Fluence 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Renault Fluence is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Fluence (276 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Fluence should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Fluence weights approximately 105 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, 2004 Renault Fluence, 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, 2004 Renault Fluence (366 Nm) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Renault Fluence will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2004 Renault Fluence | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | Fluence |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
