1998 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Kia Rio

To start off, 2011 Kia Rio 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, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2011 Kia Rio. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 258 kg more than 2011 Kia Rio. 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 Rio, 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 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Rio. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Rio. 2011 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 325 2011 Kia Rio
Make BMW Kia
Model 325 Rio
Year Released 1998 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 170 HP 110 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1386 kg 1128 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4016 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1694 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1471 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2499 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 45 L