1985 BMW 324 vs. 2009 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 BMW 316 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 316 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1985 BMW 324. 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, 2009 BMW 316 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 324.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 324 | 2009 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 324 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.5 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
