1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 14 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318.

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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 318 Cruze
Year Released 1998 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 360 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 86 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 209 km/hour 204 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.9 seconds 8.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4597 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1788 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1476 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2685 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 59 L