2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 310 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 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 | 1740 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
