2009 BMW 118 vs. 1998 BMW 325
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 BMW 118. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 118.
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, 2009 BMW 118 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 118 | 1998 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 118 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 52 L |
