1990 BMW 316 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
