1987 BMW 318 vs. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 1987 BMW 318 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Phoenix would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac Phoenix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix weights approximately 134 kg more than 1987 BMW 318.
Because 1987 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1983 Pontiac Phoenix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 318 | 1983 Pontiac Phoenix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 318 | Phoenix |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
