1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 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 X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
