1999 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Porsche 996
To start off, 2002 Porsche 996 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2002 Porsche 996.
Because 2002 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2002 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 318 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
