1998 BMW 323 vs. 2002 Buick Century
To start off, 2002 Buick Century is newer by 4 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2002 Buick Century.
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, 2002 Buick Century, 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, 2002 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2002 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2002 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 323 | Century |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
