2001 Acura RL vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2001 Acura RL is newer by 3 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 315 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Acura RL, 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, 2001 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2001 Acura RL 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. 2001 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RL | 318 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 63 L |
