1997 BMW S3 vs. 2013 Ford F-150
To start off, 2013 Ford F-150 is newer by 16 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford F-150 (405 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford F-150 weights approximately 1361 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 2013 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Ford F-150 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, 2013 Ford F-150 (588 Nm) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2013 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2013 Ford F-150 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. 2013 Ford F-150 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2013 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | S3 | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 405 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 588 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 2729 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2464 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1994 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3378 mm |
