1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1227 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 2012 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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 T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
