1995 BMW S3 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 18 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (238 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2013 BMW 3 Series. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2013 BMW 3 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (407 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2013 BMW 3 Series 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. 2013 BMW 3 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2031 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
