1996 BMW 316 vs. 1998 Buick Signia
To start off, 1998 Buick Signia is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 430 kg more than 1996 BMW 316. 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, 1998 Buick Signia, 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316. 1998 Buick Signia has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Signia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 316 | 1998 Buick Signia | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 316 | Signia |
Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 387 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |