2004 MG ZT vs. 2012 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 BMW 318 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 MG ZT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 MG ZT would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 MG ZT (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 BMW 318. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 318 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 MG ZT.
Because 2012 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 MG ZT, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 318 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 MG ZT. (215 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 MG ZT.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 MG ZT | 2012 BMW 318 | |
| Make | MG | BMW |
| Model | ZT | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2810 mm |
