2005 BMW M3 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 7 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 270 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 BMW M3 (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
2005 BMW M3 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 323 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 323 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 372 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |