1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Ford Taurus X
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 488 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
Because 1998 BMW 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Taurus X (339 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2009 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
