1997 BMW 316 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW 316 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 133 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 316 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 234 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
