1984 BMW 323 vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1984 BMW 323. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
