1998 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 247 kg more than 1998 BMW 323.
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 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2011 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2011 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2919 mm |
