1999 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford S-Max is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2012 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford S-Max weights approximately 313 kg more than 1999 BMW 323.
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, 2012 Ford S-Max, 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, 2012 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 2012 Ford S-Max | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 323 | S-Max |
Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1743 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |