1990 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 18 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP) has 46 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. 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, 2008 Fiat 500, 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, 2008 Fiat 500 (146 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2008 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 316 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 35 L |
