2008 BMW 320 vs. 1997 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2008 BMW 320.
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 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1997 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
