1998 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2011 Ford Mondeo is newer by 13 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Mondeo (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 85 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 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, 2011 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2011 Ford Mondeo (320 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2011 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2011 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
