1990 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Bora

To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Bora is newer by 13 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Bora is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Bora (116 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Bora should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Bora weights approximately 115 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.

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, 2003 Volkswagen Bora, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Bora (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Bora will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2003 Volkswagen Bora 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. 2003 Volkswagen Bora will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2003 Volkswagen Bora
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 Bora
Year Released 1990 2003
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 116 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 152 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 12.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1195 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4420 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 45 L