1988 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Infiniti M
To start off, 2008 Infiniti M is newer by 20 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Infiniti M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Infiniti M (275 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Infiniti M should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 520 kg more than 2008 Infiniti M.
Because 2008 Infiniti M is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Infiniti M 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, 2008 Infiniti M (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Infiniti M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316. 2008 Infiniti M has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Infiniti M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2008 Infiniti M | |
| Make | BMW | Infiniti |
| Model | 316 | M |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2910 mm |
