2008 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 541 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | 320 | EL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2619 mm |
