1997 BMW S3 vs. 2009 Ford F-350
To start off, 2009 Ford F-350 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 5,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford F-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford F-350 (300 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford F-350 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 402 kg more than 2009 Ford F-350.
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 Ford F-350 (495 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 Ford F-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2009 Ford F-350 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | S3 | F-350 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3610 mm |
