2008 BMW 523 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. 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 @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 523 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
