1998 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Porsche 996
To start off, 2005 Porsche 996 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 3,589 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 996 (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Porsche 996 weights approximately 219 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 2005 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 996 (560 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2005 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 318 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
