1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Kia Rondo

To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo is newer by 11 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), 2009 Kia Rondo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rondo (198 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Kia Rondo.

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, 2009 Kia Rondo, 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, 2009 Kia Rondo (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rondo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2009 Kia Rondo 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. 2009 Kia Rondo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2009 Kia Rondo
Make BMW Kia
Model 318 Rondo
Year Released 1998 2009
Body Type Convertible Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 2656 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 114 HP 198 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 169 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1285 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1710 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L