1998 BMW 316 vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 145 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, 2009 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
