1996 BMW 316 vs. 2009 BMW 330
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 13 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 465 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 2009 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 BMW 330 (501 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 316 | 2009 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 501 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
