1996 BMW 316 vs. 1977 Ford Fiesta

To start off, 1996 BMW 316 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 316 (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 316 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1996 BMW 316 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (94 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 316 1977 Ford Fiesta
Make BMW Ford
Model 316 Fiesta
Year Released 1996 1977
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1594 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 101 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 150 Nm 94 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 66 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 760 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 3570 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2290 mm