1998 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Prizm will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2003 Chevrolet Prizm | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 316 | Prizm |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
