1998 BMW 320 vs. 1989 Honda Accord

To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Accord would be higher. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1989 Honda Accord. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1989 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Honda Accord, 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Accord. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Accord. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1989 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1989 Honda Accord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 320 1989 Honda Accord
Make BMW Honda
Model 320 Accord
Year Released 1998 1989
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2169 cc 1955 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1155 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4570 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L