2002 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Seat Altea

To start off, 2003 Seat Altea is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Seat Altea (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Seat Altea should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Seat Altea weights approximately 195 kg more than 2002 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 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 2002 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Seat Altea, 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, 2002 BMW 318 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Seat Altea. (200 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Seat Altea.

Compare all specifications:

2002 BMW 318 2003 Seat Altea
Make BMW Seat
Model 318 Altea
Year Released 2002 2003
Body Type Hatchback Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1894 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 281 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 92.8 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1470 kg 1665 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1560 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L