2009 BMW 135 vs. 1997 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 135 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 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 135 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 135 | 1997 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 135 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
