1998 BMW 317 vs. 2012 GMC Terrain
To start off, 2012 GMC Terrain is newer by 14 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 GMC Terrain is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Terrain (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Terrain should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Terrain weights approximately 393 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. 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, 2012 GMC Terrain, 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, 2012 GMC Terrain (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Terrain will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2012 GMC Terrain 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. 2012 GMC Terrain will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2012 GMC Terrain | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | 317 | Terrain |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4707 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2858 mm |
