1997 BMW S3 vs. 1996 Dodge Intrepid
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 3,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 137 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, 1996 Dodge Intrepid, 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. (305 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. 1996 Dodge Intrepid 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. 1996 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1996 Dodge Intrepid | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | S3 | Intrepid |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3228 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
