1995 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 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 (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1995 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 316 weights approximately 63 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Because 1995 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 1995 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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 T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 316 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 316 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 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 | 101 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
