1997 BMW S3 vs. 1999 Chrysler Neon
To start off, 1999 Chrysler Neon 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 129 more horse power than 1999 Chrysler Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 259 kg more than 1999 Chrysler Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW S3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chrysler Neon, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chrysler Neon. (174 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chrysler Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1999 Chrysler Neon | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | S3 | Neon |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1109 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
