1986 BMW 316 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 26 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (170 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 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.
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, 2012 BMW 118 (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 118 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
