1998 BMW 316 vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (590 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 484 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang.
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, 1997 Ford Mustang (728 Nm) has 563 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 316 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 728 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
