1995 BMW S3 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 17 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 195 more horse power than 2012 BMW 118. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2012 BMW 118. 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, 2012 BMW 118 (300 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 118 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| 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 | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
