1998 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Honda Element
To start off, 2011 Honda Element is newer by 13 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Element weights approximately 356 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, 2011 Honda Element, 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, 2011 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2011 Honda Element 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. 2011 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2011 Honda Element | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 316 | Element |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4315 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1819 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2576 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
