1995 BMW S3 vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2008 BMW 525. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1995 BMW S3.
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 525 (400 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 400 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 | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
