1985 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW 316 (86 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 30 kg more than 1985 BMW 316.
Because 1985 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 1985 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 316 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
