2004 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 80 kg more than 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 200 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
