2008 BMW 323 vs. 1997 Pontiac Bonneville
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Bonneville. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Bonneville would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Bonneville is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Bonneville (200 HP) has 24 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Bonneville should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Bonneville weights approximately 70 kg more than 2008 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Bonneville, 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, 1997 Pontiac Bonneville (318 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Bonneville will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323. 1997 Pontiac Bonneville has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Bonneville will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 1997 Pontiac Bonneville | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Bonneville |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3789 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
