2007 BMW 120 vs. 1988 BMW 316
To start off, 2007 BMW 120 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 490 kg more than 2007 BMW 120.
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, 2007 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316. 2007 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 120 | 1988 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 120 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
