1998 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Infiniti M
To start off, 2011 Infiniti M is newer by 13 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 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Infiniti M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Infiniti M (420 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Infiniti M should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Infiniti M weights approximately 577 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, 2011 Infiniti M (565 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Infiniti M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2011 Infiniti M has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Infiniti M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2011 Infiniti M | |
| Make | BMW | Infiniti |
| Model | 316 | M |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 565 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1827 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4945 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2901 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
