1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Honda Accord

To start off, 2012 Honda Accord is newer by 22 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Accord (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Accord weights approximately 364 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, 2012 Honda Accord, 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, 2012 Honda Accord (219 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2012 Honda Accord 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. 2012 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2012 Honda Accord
Make BMW Honda
Model 316 Accord
Year Released 1990 2012
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 190 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 219 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4400 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 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1444 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4851 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1849 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1433 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2741 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L