2003 Acura RSX vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RSX 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 (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX.
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, 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, 2008 BMW 318 (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (192 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RSX | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 63 L |
