1997 BMW S3 vs. 2006 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 9 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 71 more horse power than 2006 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 272 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 325. (245 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2006 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
