1997 BMW S3 vs. 1995 BMW 317
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 13 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1995 BMW 317 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 317 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1665 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 | 190 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
