1998 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Rover 200
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 200 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Rover 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 140 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1996 Rover 200.
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, 1996 Rover 200, 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, 1996 Rover 200 (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 Rover 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1996 Rover 200 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 318 | 200 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
