1996 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 16 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (145 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318.
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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (176 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318. 2012 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 318 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4700 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 | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 48 L |
