1997 BMW S3 vs. 1974 Holden Statesman
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,297 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1974 Holden Statesman. (133 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Holden Statesman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Statesman weights approximately 12 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Holden Statesman. (263 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Holden Statesman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1974 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | S3 | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2900 mm |
