2009 BMW 323 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 BMW 323 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316.
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 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 323 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
