1962 BMW 1500 vs. 1983 BMW 316
To start off, 1983 BMW 316 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1500 would be higher. At 1,572 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 316 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1500. (80 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 BMW 1500 weights approximately 53 kg more than 1983 BMW 316.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1983 BMW 316 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1500. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1500 | 1983 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 1500 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1572 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2580 mm |
