1998 BMW 316 vs. 1983 Ford Orion

To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Orion would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 316 (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion, 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, 1998 BMW 316 (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 316 1983 Ford Orion
Make BMW Ford
Model 316 Orion
Year Released 1998 1983
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 106 HP 69 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.5 mm 64.5 mm
Top Speed 192 km/hour 157 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 875 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L