2004 BMW 318 vs. 1996 BMW 528
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 528 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 528 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2004 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, 1996 BMW 528 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 1996 BMW 528 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 528 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1996 BMW 528 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 528 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
