1997 BMW S3 vs. 1996 Toyota Cresta
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Cresta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Cresta 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 102 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Cresta. (158 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Cresta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota Cresta weights approximately 62 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1996 Toyota Cresta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Toyota Cresta will offer significantly more control. 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 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Cresta. (200 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Cresta. 1996 Toyota Cresta 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 Toyota Cresta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1996 Toyota Cresta | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | S3 | Cresta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
