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 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (155 HP @ 6700 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 45 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120. 2009 BMW 120 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. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 53 L |
