1998 BMW 316 vs. 1997 Honda Prelude
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 2,155 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda Prelude (195 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda Prelude weights approximately 131 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude, 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 Honda Prelude (211 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1997 Honda Prelude | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 316 | Prelude |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2155 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1381 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
