2009 BMW M3 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 11 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), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
