1997 BMW S3 vs. 1996 Renault Clio
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Clio 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) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Renault Clio. (250 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Clio weights approximately 282 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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 Renault Clio (407 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1996 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1996 Renault Clio | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | S3 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 250 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
