1997 BMW S3 vs. 1999 BMW 330
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 2 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 32 more horse power than 1999 BMW 330. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 207 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 330. (300 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1999 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
