1986 BMW 316 vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero (148 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 300 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 316 | Alero |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
