1995 BMW 317 vs. 1978 BMW 628
To start off, 1995 BMW 317 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 628 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 628 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317.
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, 1978 BMW 628 (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 628 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1978 BMW 628 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 317 | 628 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
