1997 BMW S3 vs. 2004 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2004 Toyota 4Runner 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 3,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2004 Toyota 4Runner. (242 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 532 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 2004 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2004 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2004 Toyota 4Runner (382 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2004 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2004 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2004 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | S3 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
