2009 BMW 730 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 BMW 730 is newer by 11 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 2,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 730 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 730 weights approximately 490 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.
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 730 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2009 BMW 730 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. 2009 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 730 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1935 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 63 L |
