1995 BMW S3 vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (530 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1995 BMW S3. (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2012 Porsche 911.
Because 2012 Porsche 911 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 911 (699 Nm) has 439 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2012 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2012 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | S3 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 530 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2350 mm |
