1996 BMW 840 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 840. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 840 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 840 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 840 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 840 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 840 weights approximately 522 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. 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, 1996 BMW 840 (440 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 840 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 1996 BMW 840 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 840 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 840 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 840 | S3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 330 Nm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1368 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |