1999 BMW 323 vs. 1989 Dodge Shadow

To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Shadow. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Shadow would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Shadow (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 142 kg more than 1989 Dodge Shadow.

Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Shadow will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 323 1989 Dodge Shadow
Make BMW Dodge
Model 323 Shadow
Year Released 1999 1989
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2213 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 278 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.1:1
Top Speed 201 km/hour 212 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1288 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2470 mm