2008 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Acura CL
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura CL would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura CL (145 HP) has 18 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (127 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura CL weights approximately 185 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, 1997 Acura CL, 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. 1997 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1997 Acura CL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | 318 | CL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 145 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4826 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2715 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
