1998 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta

To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,893 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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 318 (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 1989 Ford Fiesta
Make BMW Ford
Model 318 Fiesta
Year Released 1998 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1893 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 138 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 203 km/hour 185 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1315 kg 905 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 3810 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2330 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L