1997 BMW S3 vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 Ford Mustang. (200 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 174 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Mustang. (321 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Mustang. 2004 Ford Mustang 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. 2004 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | S3 | Mustang |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4009 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 321 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1542 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |