1997 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 15 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 210 kg more than 1997 BMW 318. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2012 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 318 | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 318 | Impala |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 355 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1852 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1491 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2807 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |