1998 BMW 318 vs. 2007 Kia Magentis

To start off, 2007 Kia Magentis is newer by 9 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Kia Magentis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Magentis (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Magentis should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Magentis weights approximately 290 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, 2007 Kia Magentis, 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, 2007 Kia Magentis (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Magentis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2007 Kia Magentis has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Magentis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2007 Kia Magentis
Make BMW Kia
Model 318 Magentis
Year Released 1998 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 2656 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 140 HP 185 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 247 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 86.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 75 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1275 kg 1565 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 62 L