2004 BMW 320 vs. 1998 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 6 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1998 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, 2004 BMW 320 (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 1998 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 221 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
