1998 BMW 323 vs. 2008 Kia Sportage

To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 10 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sportage (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2008 Kia Sportage.

Because 2008 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage will offer significantly more control. 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 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Sportage. (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Sportage. 2008 Kia Sportage 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. 2008 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 323 2008 Kia Sportage
Make BMW Kia
Model 323 Sportage
Year Released 1998 2008
Body Type Hatchback SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2656 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 168 HP 173 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 241 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1595 kg 1285 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 65 L