2008 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1996 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 X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
