1998 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 280 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1997 Acura RL, 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, 1997 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 1997 Acura RL | |
Make | BMW | Acura |
Model | 318 | RL |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3472 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 205 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1675 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2920 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |