1995 BMW S3 vs. 2005 BMW 320
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 10 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 190 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2005 BMW 320. 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, 2005 BMW 320 (340 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2005 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2005 |
| 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 | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
