1998 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Fiat Punto
To start off, 1998 BMW 325 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1997 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Punto, 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 325 (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Punto. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 1997 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 325 | Punto |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
