1997 BMW S3 vs. 2009 BMW 335
To start off, 2009 BMW 335 is newer by 12 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, 2009 BMW 335 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 335 weights approximately 232 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, 2009 BMW 335 (407 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2009 BMW 335 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 335 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
