1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 313 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 GTI, 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 GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| 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 | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1393 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 |
