1995 BMW 317 vs. 2004 BMW 320
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2004 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 317 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
