1988 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 341 kg more than 2005 Nissan 350Z.
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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (372 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 316 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
