2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 829 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
