1996 BMW 325 vs. 1998 BMW 316
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 325 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 325 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 325 | 1998 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
