2006 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2006 BMW 323 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercury Sable. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercury Sable would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Mercury Sable. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercury Sable.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Sable, 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, 2003 Mercury Sable (251 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2003 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 323. 2003 Mercury Sable has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 323 | 2003 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 323 | Sable |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2986 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
