1997 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2011 Subaru Impreza 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, 2011 Subaru Impreza (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 87 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.
Because 2011 Subaru Impreza is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 330 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2011 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | S3 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2624 mm |
