1985 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 316 would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (257 HP) has 171 more horse power than 1985 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 465 kg more than 1985 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (420 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 316 | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 316 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 257 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
