1997 BMW S3 vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 377 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 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander, 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 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Toyota Highlander. (252 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Toyota Highlander. 2013 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | S3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2790 mm |
