2003 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2003 BMW 318 (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 2003 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 318 | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 318 | Polo |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |