1998 BMW 318 vs. 2010 Fiat 500

To start off, 2010 Fiat 500 is newer by 12 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2010 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2010 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2010 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2010 Fiat 500, 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Fiat 500. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Fiat 500. 2010 Fiat 500 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. 2010 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2010 Fiat 500
Make BMW Fiat
Model 318 500
Year Released 1998 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 1242 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 68 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 102 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 70.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 78.9 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 209 km/hour 160 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.9 seconds 12.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1275 kg 940 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 3550 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2310 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 35 L