2009 BMW 320 vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2001 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, 2009 BMW 320 (211 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 2001 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
