1990 BMW 316 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus

To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 8 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 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 580 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Microbus
Year Released 1990 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2553 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1660 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1960 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2470 mm