2007 BMW 323 vs. 1998 Ford Cougar
To start off, 2007 BMW 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Cougar would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Ford Cougar. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 323 weights approximately 101 kg more than 1998 Ford Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Cougar, 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, 2007 BMW 323 (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Cougar. (221 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Cougar. 2007 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Cougar has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Cougar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 323 | 1998 Ford Cougar | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2544 cc |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
