2004 BMW 318 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. Both 2004 BMW 318 and 2012 BMW 320 are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
