1997 BMW S3 vs. 2002 Honda Civic
To start off, 2002 Honda Civic is newer by 5 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 133 more horse power than 2002 Honda Civic. (127 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 522 kg more than 2002 Honda Civic. 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, 2002 Honda Civic, 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 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Civic. (152 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Civic. 2002 Honda Civic 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. 2002 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2002 Honda Civic | |
Make | BMW | Honda |
Model | S3 | Civic |
Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1672 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 127 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 152 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.9:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 846 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |