2008 BMW 318 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 230 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, 2008 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 318 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 318 | 520 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1700 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |