2001 Acura RL vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Acura RL 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 57 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 280 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 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 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RL | 318 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 63 L |
