1977 BMW 320 vs. 2004 Porsche 996
To start off, 2004 Porsche 996 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1977 BMW 320. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Porsche 996 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1977 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 320. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 320 | 2004 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 320 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 64 L |
