2008 BMW M3 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 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, 2008 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW M3 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 323 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 75 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1595 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |