1998 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Ford C-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford C-Max is newer by 14 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 316 (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2012 Ford C-Max. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford C-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford C-Max weights approximately 125 kg more than 1998 BMW 316.
Because 1998 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford C-Max, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Ford C-Max (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford C-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2012 Ford C-Max | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 316 | C-Max |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1828 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1626 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2648 mm |
