1995 BMW S3 vs. 2009 BMW 650
To start off, 2009 BMW 650 is newer by 14 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 650 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1995 BMW S3. (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2009 BMW 650.
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, 2009 BMW 650 (490 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2009 BMW 650 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 650 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2790 mm |
