2000 Acura RL vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2000 Acura RL is newer by 2 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Acura RL weights approximately 128 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. 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, 2000 Acura RL, 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, 2000 Acura RL (304 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2000 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2000 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Acura RL | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RL | 323 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2710 mm |
