1998 BMW 317 vs. 2006 Honda Element
To start off, 2006 Honda Element is newer by 8 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2006 Honda Element.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Honda Element (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2006 Honda Element 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. 2006 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2006 Honda Element | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 317 | Element |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
