2009 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 2009 BMW 320 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 320 | Alero |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 53 L |
