1991 BMW 518 vs. 2012 Kia Rio

To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 518 weights approximately 34 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio.

Because 1991 BMW 518 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 1991 BMW 518. 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, 2012 Kia Rio (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518. 2012 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 518 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:

1991 BMW 518 2012 Kia Rio
Make BMW Kia
Model 518 Rio
Year Released 1991 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1766 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4850 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1126 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4366 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2570 mm