1998 BMW 316 vs. 2002 Noble M12
To start off, 2002 Noble M12 is newer by 4 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 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Noble M12 (335 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2002 Noble M12.
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, 2002 Noble M12 (485 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2002 Noble M12 | |
| Make | BMW | Noble |
| Model | 316 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
