1997 BMW S3 vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 488 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW S3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Cherry, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (102 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Cherry. 1978 Nissan Cherry 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. 1978 Nissan Cherry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | S3 | Cherry |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 102 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |