1998 BMW 323 vs. 1977 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 742 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1998 BMW 323 (246 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1977 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
