1997 BMW 316 vs. 2010 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2010 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 13 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 214 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.
Because 1997 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Toyota RAV4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2010 Toyota RAV4 (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2010 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316. 2010 Toyota RAV4 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 2010 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | 316 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
