1997 BMW S3 vs. 1996 Honda Civic
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Civic 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 148 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 338 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic. 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, 1996 Honda Civic, 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 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (144 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 1996 Honda Civic | |
Make | BMW | Honda |
Model | S3 | Civic |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1590 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 144 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |