2008 BMW 318 vs. 1998 BMW V12
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 V12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW V12 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 BMW V12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW V12 (570 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 429 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW V12 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW V12 weights approximately 219 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. 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, 1998 BMW V12 (909 Nm) has 709 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (200 Nm). This means 1998 BMW V12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1998 BMW V12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | V12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 570 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 909 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 1 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1614 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2790 mm |
