2008 BMW 323 vs. 1998 BMW M
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
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 M (340 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 1998 BMW M | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | M |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3246 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
