1991 BMW M12 vs. 1980 BMW 316
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1980 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 316.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW M12 | 1980 BMW 316 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M12 | 316 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1573 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 296 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 71 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2580 mm |