1997 BMW S3 vs. 1991 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Taurus 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 171 more horse power than 1991 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Taurus weights approximately 32 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 1991 Ford Taurus, 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 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1991 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2512 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
