1997 BMW S3 vs. 2011 BMW 118
To start off, 2011 BMW 118 is newer by 14 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 117 more horse power than 2011 BMW 118. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 118 weights approximately 17 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 118. (300 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2011 BMW 118 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | S3 | 118 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
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 | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 300 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1421 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |