1998 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2011 Toyota RAV4 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2011 Toyota RAV4.
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 Toyota RAV4, 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota RAV4. (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota RAV4. 2011 Toyota RAV4 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. 2011 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2011 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1745 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
