1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 440 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 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 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 X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
