1998 BMW 320 vs. 2001 BMW 316
To start off, 2001 BMW 316 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2001 BMW 316. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2001 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 316. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 316 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 | 2001 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
