2009 BMW X3 vs. 1983 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1983 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1765 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
