1988 BMW 316 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 22 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz B (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 400 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 1988 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz B (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | B |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.6 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
