1998 BMW 323 vs. 2008 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Maxima 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Maxima (197 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Nissan Maxima.
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, 2008 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2008 Nissan Maxima (271 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2008 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
