1997 BMW S3 vs. 2007 BMW 130
To start off, 2007 BMW 130 is newer by 10 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, 2007 BMW 130 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 130 weights approximately 12 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 130. (315 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 130.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2007 BMW 130 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 130 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
