1997 BMW S3 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Express is newer by 11 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Express (324 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 107 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Express.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Express (506 Nm) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2008 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2008 Chevrolet Express 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. 2008 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2008 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | S3 | Express |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 324 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 506 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 12 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 2090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3940 mm |
