1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Honda Element
To start off, 2003 Honda Element is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,352 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Honda Element (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda Element weights approximately 235 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, 2003 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, 2003 Honda Element (216 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Honda Element | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 318 | Element |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
