1983 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 380 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | B |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1572 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
