2008 BMW 316 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 10 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2008 BMW 316. 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 316. (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
