1997 BMW S3 vs. 1998 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 1998 Jeep Cherokee 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 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 140 more horse power than 1998 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 62 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1998 Jeep Cherokee 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, 1998 Jeep Cherokee 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 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Jeep Cherokee. 1998 Jeep Cherokee 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. 1998 Jeep Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1998 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | BMW | Jeep |
| Model | S3 | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2464 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 194 Nm |
| 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 | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
