1997 BMW S3 vs. 2012 Aston Martin DB9
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 is newer by 15 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 5,900 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Aston Martin DB9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin DB9 weights approximately 487 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, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 (600 Nm) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2012 Aston Martin DB9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2012 Aston Martin DB9 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. 2012 Aston Martin DB9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2012 Aston Martin DB9 | |
| Make | BMW | Aston Martin |
| Model | S3 | DB9 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 470 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1875 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2746 mm |
