1997 BMW 850 vs. 1999 Audi S3
To start off, 1999 Audi S3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1999 Audi S3. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1999 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S3. (270 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S3. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 1999 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 850 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2520 mm |
