1988 BMW 316 vs. 2009 BMW 118
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 21 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 118 (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2009 BMW 118.
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, 2009 BMW 118 (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2009 BMW 118 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 118 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
