1997 BMW S3 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox 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 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. (182 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 773 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox, 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. (210 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox 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. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | S3 | Equinox |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
