1998 BMW 323 vs. 2013 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2013 Mini Cooper is newer by 15 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, 2013 Mini Cooper (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2013 Mini Cooper.
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, 2013 Mini Cooper, 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, 2013 Mini Cooper (260 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2013 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2013 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 323 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3961 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1432 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2547 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
