1998 BMW 316 vs. 1988 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 535 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1988 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1988 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 316 | Astro |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
