1995 BMW S3 vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 13 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2008 BMW 330. (229 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 BMW 330. 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, 2008 BMW 330 (500 Nm) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2008 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
