1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco 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 Volkswagen Scirocco (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 297 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco.
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 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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 Volkswagen Scirocco (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4256 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1404 mm |
