2003 BMW X5 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 810 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 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, 2003 BMW X5 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 11.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 63 L |
