1991 BMW M12 vs. 1983 BMW 316
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 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 208 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1983 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 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1983 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1765 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| 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 | 2630 mm |
