1990 BMW 316 vs. 1980 Honda Ballade

To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Ballade 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) has 26 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. 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, 1980 Honda Ballade, 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Ballade. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Ballade. 1980 Honda Ballade has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Honda Ballade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 1980 Honda Ballade
Make BMW Honda
Model 316 Ballade
Year Released 1990 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1488 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 74 HP
Torque 141 Nm 120 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 815 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2330 mm