1986 BMW 316 vs. 1998 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire 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 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire (115 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 130 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 Pontiac Sunfire, 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 Pontiac Sunfire (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 1998 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 316 | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 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 | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
