1987 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Kia Rio

To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 320 (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2012 Kia Rio. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 BMW 320 weights approximately 92 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1987 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1987 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1987 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1987 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio. 2012 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1987 BMW 320 2012 Kia Rio
Make BMW Kia
Model 320 Rio
Year Released 1987 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6900 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 4850 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1218 kg 1126 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4046 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 43 L