1987 BMW 316 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1987 BMW 316 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,713 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 316 (86 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 BMW 316 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1987 BMW 316 (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1987 BMW 316 | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 316 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1987 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1571 cc | 1713 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 64 HP |
Torque | 123 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |