1990 BMW 316 vs. 2006 Pontiac Vibe

To start off, 2006 Pontiac Vibe 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Vibe (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 708 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, 2006 Pontiac Vibe, 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 Pontiac Vibe (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2006 Pontiac Vibe
Make BMW Pontiac
Model 316 Vibe
Year Released 1990 2006
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1786 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 126 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 165 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 3.1:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1788 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1590 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 49 L