1997 BMW S3 vs. 2005 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2005 Toyota Corolla is newer by 8 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 170 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Corolla. (90 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 178 kg more than 2005 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW S3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Corolla, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Corolla. (190 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Corolla. 2005 Toyota Corolla 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. 2005 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2005 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | S3 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 17.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
