1998 BMW 323 vs. 2001 BMW M
To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 172 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2001 BMW M | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | M |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
