1997 BMW S3 vs. 1998 BMW 740
To start off, 1998 BMW 740 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 740 (286 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 740 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 BMW 740 (440 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1998 BMW 740 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1968 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3080 mm |
