1997 BMW S3 vs. 1956 Maserati 450
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Maserati 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Maserati 450 would be higher. At 4,478 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Maserati 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Maserati 450 (395 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Maserati 450 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 578 kg more than 1956 Maserati 450.
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, 1956 Maserati 450 (487 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1956 Maserati 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1956 Maserati 450 | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | S3 | 450 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4478 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 395 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 487 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 790 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
