1997 BMW S3 vs. 2004 BMW 525
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 7 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 86 more horse power than 2004 BMW 525. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 382 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 2004 BMW 525 (390 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2004 BMW 525 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | S3 | 525 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 390 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 17.0:1 |
Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1750 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |