1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 11 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 540 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 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
