1998 BMW 318 vs. 2005 MG ZT
To start off, 2005 MG ZT is newer by 7 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, 2005 MG ZT (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 MG ZT weights approximately 90 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, 2005 MG ZT, 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, 2005 MG ZT (215 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2005 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2005 MG ZT has manual transmission. 2005 MG ZT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2005 MG ZT | |
| Make | BMW | MG |
| Model | 318 | ZT |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
