1995 BMW S3 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 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 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (355 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
