2003 Acura RSX vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX, 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, 2003 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 2001 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RSX | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 67 L |
