1997 BMW S3 vs. 2007 BMW 523
To start off, 2007 BMW 523 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, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2007 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 523 weights approximately 132 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2007 BMW 523 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 523 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
