2004 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Porsche 993
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche 993 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche 993 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche 993 (282 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Porsche 993 weights approximately 92 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.
Because 1996 Porsche 993 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 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, 1996 Porsche 993 (341 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Porsche 993 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1996 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 318 | 993 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 76.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2280 mm |
