1988 BMW 524 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 1995 BMW S3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 524 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
