1999 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 64 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
