1997 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Suburban (320 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 1284 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Suburban (454 Nm) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2011 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 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. 2011 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2011 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | S3 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2652 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2009 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1951 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3302 mm |
