1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 BMW 135
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 BMW 135.
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 135 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 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 135 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 135 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 53 L |
