1995 BMW S3 vs. 2012 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2012 Ford Fusion 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2012 Ford Fusion. (263 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 96 kg more than 2012 Ford Fusion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1995 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fusion, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Fusion (337 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2012 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2012 Ford Fusion 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. 2012 Ford Fusion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2012 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Fusion |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1629 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2728 mm |
