1998 BMW 317 vs. 2004 Kia Sephia II

To start off, 2004 Kia Sephia II is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 317 (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Kia Sephia II. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 317 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Sephia II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2004 Kia Sephia II. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Sephia II, 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Sephia II. (122 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Sephia II. 2004 Kia Sephia II has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Kia Sephia II will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 317 2004 Kia Sephia II
Make BMW Kia
Model 317 Sephia II
Year Released 1998 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1665 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 79 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 122 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1355 kg 1055 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2570 mm