2009 BMW 125 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 19 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 445 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, 2009 BMW 125 (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2009 BMW 125 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. 2009 BMW 125 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 125 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 125 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
