2009 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Fiat Punto
To start off, 2009 BMW 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Punto.
Because 2009 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Punto, 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 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Punto. (84 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 323 | 1996 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 323 | Punto |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
