2003 BMW 520 vs. 1999 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 4 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 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (192 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1999 BMW 318.
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, 1999 BMW 318 (355 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1999 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
