2008 BMW 320 vs. 1998 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 10 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 222 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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 1998 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1998 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
