1997 BMW S3 vs. 2002 Toyota Solara
To start off, 2002 Toyota Solara 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 98 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Solara. (162 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Solara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota Solara weights approximately 27 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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 Toyota Solara, 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 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Solara. (224 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Solara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2002 Toyota Solara | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | S3 | Solara |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
