1980 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Acura RDX

To start off, 2011 Acura RDX is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Acura RDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Acura RDX (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1980 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Acura RDX weights approximately 628 kg more than 1980 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 BMW 316 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 1980 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Acura RDX, 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, 2011 Acura RDX (352 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316. 2011 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 BMW 316 2011 Acura RDX
Make BMW Acura
Model 316 RDX
Year Released 1980 2011
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1573 cc 2300 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 240 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 124 Nm 352 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1070 kg 1698 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4636 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1869 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1654 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2649 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 58 L 68 L