1998 BMW 316 vs. 1999 BMW 320
To start off, 1999 BMW 320 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 320 weights approximately 170 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.
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, 1999 BMW 320 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1999 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
