1984 BMW 316 vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 656 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 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, 2009 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 2009 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
