1988 BMW 316 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 23 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 328 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2011 BMW M3.
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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.6 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2761 mm |
