1995 BMW 317 vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 35 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 2012 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 317 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1250 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
