1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C
To start off, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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 3,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (592 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 452 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C weights approximately 159 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 McLaren MP4-12C (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2012 McLaren MP4-12C | |
| Make | BMW | McLaren |
| Model | 318 | MP4-12C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 592 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1199 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
