1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2008 Nissan Xterra.

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, 2008 Nissan Xterra, 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, 2008 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2008 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2008 Nissan Xterra
Make BMW Nissan
Model 318 Xterra
Year Released 1998 2008
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 3952 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 116 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 9.7:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1130 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1910 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Consumption 6 L/100km 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 11.3 L/100km 15.7 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 8 L/100km 13.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 80 L