2003 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Rover 825
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Rover 825. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Rover 825 would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Rover 825 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Rover 825 (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Rover 825 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Rover 825 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Rover 825, 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, 1986 Rover 825 (268 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 Rover 825 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 1986 Rover 825 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 318 | 825 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 268 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
