1990 BMW 316 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1990 BMW 316 (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Rabbit
Year Released 1990 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 805 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2410 mm


 

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