1997 BMW 316 vs. 2006 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,001 cc, 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1997 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 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, 2006 BMW 325 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 2006 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3001 cc |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
