What's the difference between the 116 and the 118...?

When looking at the BMW 1-series, it's important to understand some of the differences between the range of engines available for the brand. The 116 and the 118 petrol and diesel engines are amongst the most common for the current F20 generation of the
1-series' three- and five-door hatchbacks, as well as for its coupes and convertibles. Both engines are at the lower end of the power scale, with the 1-series also including 114, 120, and 125 engines. What, then, are some of the main differences between the 116 and the 118?

The 116
The BMW 116 engine covers both a 1.6-litre petrol version, and a 2.0-litre diesel engine; in general, the 116i engine combines fuel economy with turbocharging to make the most of its relatively small size compared to other BMW engines; the 116i can still hit 0-62 mph in 8.5 seconds, though, and is capable of giving you a decent mileage of an average 134 hp for a three door hatchback, and 136 hp for the 5-door version. The diesel version of the 116d is capable of excellent fuel economy at 2.0 litres.

The 118
By comparison, the BMW 118i and 118d differs from its 116 cousin through a more powerful petrol engine, and even greater economy for its diesel. The 118i is still 1.6 litres, but is capable of 170 hp, pushing it above the 116i for the five door model hatchback in particular - the 3-door has 168 hp. The 118i engine petrol engine is also capable of hitting 0-100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds, meaning that you'll get more power than the 116i, as well as a reasonable CO2 emission rate of 134 g/km.

The 118d diesel, however, is where BMW 1-series models equipped with the engine really come into their own for three and five door hatchbacks, and for convertibles and coupes. The 118d is capable of emitting just 115 to 118 g/km of CO2 emissions, making it eligible for Benefit in Kind discounts on road tax for owners. The 118d also delivers an impressive 141 hp on its 1,995 engine.

Both the 116 and the 118 engines are enhanced by BMW's EfficientDynamics engineering program, which uses turbocharging to make engines smaller and more efficient, without having to create more wastage. Available trims for both engines and models include ES, Urban, SE, and M Sport versions, which give you the choice of extras like alloy wheels, Bluetooth, and heated seats, as well as driving assists. Going with a BMW dealership for your model can also provide you with extended warranties and discounted servicing on official parts.

In terms of deciding between the 116 and the 118 engines when deciding on which BMW 1-series you want, you'll have to weigh up whether you want the extra kick that the 118i gives you over the 116 - the difference in power and speed will set you back extra money. You also need to decide how much value you place on a diesel engine with high economy ratings - for everyday city driving and reasonable economy, the 116 can be a good investment, but for more heavy-duty driving, the 118 engine is better.

- Angelina Jennifer

Send your contribution as articles, reviews, test drives, etc. at  

editor@wheelsology.com or news@wheelsology.com

Posted in: Africa,Angelina Jennifer,Asia Pacific,Australia,BMW,BMW 1-series,Europe,Guest Post,North America,South America