1998 BMW 323 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 173 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
