1996 BMW M3 vs. 1992 BMW 316
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1992 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 322 kg more than 1992 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 M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1992 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
