1997 BMW S3 vs. 2008 Ford F-150
To start off, 2008 Ford F-150 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 4,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2008 Ford F-150. (202 HP @ 4350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford F-150. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 261 kg more than 2008 Ford F-150. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW S3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford F-150, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford F-150 (353 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2008 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2008 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | S3 | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3210 mm |
