1999 BMW 318 vs. 1998 BMW 317
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1998 BMW 317 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 317 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
