1997 BMW S3 vs. 2009 Chrysler Town & Country
To start off, 2009 Chrysler Town & Country 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 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler Town & Country is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler Town & Country. (251 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler Town & Country. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler Town & Country weights approximately 447 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 Chrysler Town & Country, 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, 2009 Chrysler Town & Country (351 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 Chrysler Town & Country will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2009 Chrysler Town & Country 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 Chrysler Town & Country will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2009 Chrysler Town & Country | |
Make | BMW | Chrysler |
Model | S3 | Town & Country |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3952 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 251 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 351 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1815 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2010 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3080 mm |