1990 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Honda Civic

To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 21 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Civic weights approximately 103 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, 2011 Honda Civic, 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, 2011 Honda Civic (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2011 Honda Civic 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. 2011 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2011 Honda Civic
Make BMW Honda
Model 316 Civic
Year Released 1990 2011
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 173 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1183 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 50 L