1997 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Rover 45
To start off, 2002 Rover 45 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2002 Rover 45. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2002 Rover 45. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2002 Rover 45. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Rover 45, 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, 1997 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Rover 45. (123 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Rover 45.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2002 Rover 45 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 318 | 45 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
