1997 BMW S3 vs. 2009 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 BMW 520 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, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2009 BMW 520. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 520 weights approximately 217 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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 520 (350 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 520 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 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
