1998 BMW 323 vs. 1989 Fiat Croma
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Fiat Croma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Fiat Croma would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Fiat Croma. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1989 Fiat Croma. 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, 1989 Fiat Croma, 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1989 Fiat Croma | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 323 | Croma |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
