1999 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Vector M12
To start off, 2002 Vector M12 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 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 344 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vector M12 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1999 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, 2002 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318. 1999 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2002 Vector M12 has manual transmission. 2002 Vector M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2002 Vector M12 | |
| Make | BMW | Vector |
| Model | 318 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |
