2001 BMW Compact vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2001 BMW Compact is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Compact is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Compact (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Compact should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Compact weights approximately 500 kg more than 1990 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, 2001 BMW Compact (237 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm). This means 2001 BMW Compact will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW Compact | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Compact | 316 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
