1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTD

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTD 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTD weights approximately 329 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 Volkswagen GTD, 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 Volkswagen GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2012 Volkswagen GTD
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 316 GTD
Year Released 1990 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 1750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1409 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4213 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1501 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L