1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 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, 2009 BMW 320 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2009 BMW 320.
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 320 (351 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2009 BMW 320 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 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2009 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 320 |
| 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 | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
