2003 BMW 520 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 13 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 620 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
