1990 BMW 316 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 82 kg more 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
