1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 BMW 120 (340 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
