1998 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Honda Civic

To start off, 2012 Honda Civic 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 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 244 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic. 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 Honda Civic, 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 @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 323 2012 Honda Civic
Make BMW Honda
Model 323 Civic
Year Released 1998 2012
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 169 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 173 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4300 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1186 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 50 L