1997 BMW S3 vs. 1999 Ferrari F355
To start off, 1999 Ferrari F355 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 3,589 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ferrari F355 (396 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 42 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, 1999 Ferrari F355 (373 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1999 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 1999 Ferrari F355 | |
Make | BMW | Ferrari |
Model | S3 | F355 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3589 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 396 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 373 Nm |
Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 294 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1180 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |