1996 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Skoda Fabia
To start off, 2003 Skoda Fabia is newer by 7 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 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 27 more horse power than 2003 Skoda Fabia. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2003 Skoda Fabia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 316 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2003 Skoda Fabia. 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, 2003 Skoda Fabia, 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, 2003 Skoda Fabia (196 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Skoda Fabia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 316 | 2003 Skoda Fabia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 316 | Fabia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
