1997 BMW S3 vs. 2008 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2008 Subaru Impreza 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 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 89 more horse power than 2008 Subaru Impreza. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 265 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 2008 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Subaru Impreza. (231 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2008 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | S3 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
