1997 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Honda Fit
To start off, 2011 Honda Fit 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 143 more horse power than 2011 Honda Fit. (117 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Fit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 236 kg more than 2011 Honda Fit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Honda Fit, 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 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Fit. (144 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Fit. 2011 Honda Fit 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 Honda Fit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2011 Honda Fit | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | S3 | Fit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1524 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2499 mm |
