1998 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 14 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 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 655 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500. 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, 2012 Fiat 500, 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 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat 500. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat 500. 2012 Fiat 500 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. 2012 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 323 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
Make | BMW | Fiat |
Model | 323 | 500 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 68 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 70.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.9 mm |
Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 35 L |