1990 BMW 316 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Impala

To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 16 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (200 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316.

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, 2006 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (298 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2006 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2006 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2006 Chevrolet Impala
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 316 Impala
Year Released 1990 2006
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 3491 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5900 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 298 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.8:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 5100 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2810 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 64 L