1987 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Porsche 996
To start off, 2005 Porsche 996 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,594 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1987 BMW 320. (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Porsche 996 weights approximately 302 kg more than 1987 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 320 | 2005 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 320 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
