1996 BMW 316 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1996 BMW 316 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 316 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
