1986 BMW 316 vs. 2012 BMW 740
To start off, 2012 BMW 740 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 740 (304 HP) has 218 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 740 weights approximately 880 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 740 (600 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 477 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 740 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 740 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 740 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 304 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5072 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 82 L |
