1998 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Forte (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Forte weights approximately 59 kg more than 1998 BMW 325. 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, 2011 Kia Forte, 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Forte. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Forte.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 325 | Forte |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
