2008 BMW 318 vs. 1998 BMW 317
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW 318 (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1998 BMW 317 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 317 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
