1996 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Toyota Sienna
To start off, 2003 Toyota Sienna is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Toyota Sienna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Toyota Sienna (173 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Sienna should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Sienna weights approximately 260 kg more than 1996 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 318 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 1996 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Sienna, 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, 2003 Toyota Sienna (294 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Sienna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318. 2003 Toyota Sienna has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Sienna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 2003 Toyota Sienna | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | 318 | Sienna |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2910 mm |
