1996 BMW 316 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 BMW 316 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 31 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 316 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 316 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 316 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |