1997 BMW 318 vs. 2013 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2013 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 16 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Hyundai Elantra (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2013 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2013 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, 2013 Hyundai Elantra (178 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2013 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2013 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2013 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2013 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | BMW | Hyundai |
| Model | 318 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 53 L |
