1988 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 300 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 316 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| 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 | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
