1997 BMW S3 vs. 2008 Ferrari F430
To start off, 2008 Ferrari F430 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 4,309 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ferrari F430 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ferrari F430 (490 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ferrari F430 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ferrari F430 weights approximately 157 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, 2008 Ferrari F430 (465 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2008 Ferrari F430 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2008 Ferrari F430 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 Ferrari F430 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2008 Ferrari F430 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | S3 | F430 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4309 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 490 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 465 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 315 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
