2008 Kia Carens vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 Kia Carens is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Kia Carens. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carens weights approximately 139 kg more than 2004 BMW 318.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Carens, 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Carens. (189 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Carens.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carens | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Carens | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
