1995 BMW 317 vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Soul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Soul (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Soul weights approximately 13 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 Kia Soul, 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 Soul (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Soul will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 317 | Soul |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
