1995 BMW S3 vs. 1988 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 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 146 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 429 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
