Were there significant differences in the doctrines of various sects?

There were considerable differences between the doctrines of Theravada and Mahasamghika. As to the subgroups, they generally had only minor differences from their basic sect. the doctrines of Theravada could be represented by Sarvastivada’s as it was the earliest and largest sect among Theravadins, and bequeathed a wealth of cannons of Abhidhamma Pitaka. Of the Mahasamghika, on the other hand, few works were preserved, only some of its doctrines being known through historical accouts.