1997 BMW S3 vs. 1949 Jensen Interceptor
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Jensen Interceptor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Jensen Interceptor would be higher. At 3,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Jensen Interceptor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1949 Jensen Interceptor. (130 HP @ 3700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1949 Jensen Interceptor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Jensen Interceptor weights approximately 131 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Jensen Interceptor. (288 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Jensen Interceptor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1949 Jensen Interceptor | |
| Make | BMW | Jensen |
| Model | S3 | Interceptor |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
