2003 Acura EL vs. 1999 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 Acura EL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 Acura EL. (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 218 kg more than 2003 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura EL, 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, 1999 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura EL. (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura EL. 1999 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura EL has manual transmission. 2003 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura EL | 1999 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | EL | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
