1983 BMW 316 vs. 1959 Chevrolet Corvair
To start off, 1983 BMW 316 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Chevrolet Corvair would be higher. At 2,286 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Chevrolet Corvair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 316 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Chevrolet Corvair weights approximately 170 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 1959 Chevrolet Corvair | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 316 | Corvair |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 2286 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2750 mm |
