1997 BMW S3 vs. 1996 Ferrari F355
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 18 kg more than 1996 Ferrari F355.
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, 1996 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1996 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 1996 Ferrari F355 | |
Make | BMW | Ferrari |
Model | S3 | F355 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8250 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 363 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.1:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1180 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |