1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Nissan Murano

To start off, 2012 Nissan Murano 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Murano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Murano (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Murano should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Murano weights approximately 366 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 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 Nissan Murano, 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 Nissan Murano (325 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Murano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2012 Nissan Murano
Make BMW Nissan
Model 318 Murano
Year Released 1998 2012
Body Type Convertible Crossover
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 114 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 169 Nm 325 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual CVT
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1811 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4823 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1882 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1727 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2824 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 82 L