1997 BMW S3 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 6 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 6,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado (340 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 1192 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.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado (488 Nm) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2003 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | S3 | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 6599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2560 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3650 mm |
