2004 BMW 318 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 6 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. Both 2004 BMW 318 and 1998 BMW 318 are equipped with a 1,796 cc engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 114 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 145 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, 2004 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
