1997 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Ford Edge

To start off, 2011 Ford Edge is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Edge is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Edge (285 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Edge should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Edge weights approximately 542 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 1997 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Edge, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Ford Edge (343 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Edge will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316. 2011 Ford Edge has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Edge will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW 316 2011 Ford Edge
Make BMW Ford
Model 316 Edge
Year Released 1997 2011
Body Type Sedan Crossover
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 101 HP 285 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 150 Nm 343 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 1852 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4679 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1930 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1702 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2824 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 68 L