1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 10 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 4398 cc |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
