1997 BMW S3 vs. 2003 Maybach 57
To start off, 2003 Maybach 57 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Maybach 57 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Maybach 57 (543 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Maybach 57 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Maybach 57 weights approximately 842 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, 2003 Maybach 57 (900 Nm) has 570 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2003 Maybach 57 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2003 Maybach 57 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 Maybach 57 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2003 Maybach 57 | |
| Make | BMW | Maybach |
| Model | S3 | 57 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 543 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 900 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2220 mm |
