1998 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Porsche 993
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche 993 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche 993 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche 993 (282 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 108 kg more than 1996 Porsche 993.
Because 1996 Porsche 993 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Porsche 993 (341 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Porsche 993 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1996 Porsche 993 has manual transmission. 1996 Porsche 993 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 1996 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 320 | 993 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 76.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2280 mm |
