1983 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 30 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 422 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
