1984 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Toyota RAV4

To start off, 2012 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 28 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 468 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.

Because 1984 BMW 323 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 1984 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Toyota RAV4 (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323. 2012 Toyota RAV4 has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 BMW 323 2012 Toyota RAV4
Make BMW Toyota
Model 323 RAV4
Year Released 1984 2012
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2314 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 179 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 205 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1090 kg 1558 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1854 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1684 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2659 mm