1998 BMW 330 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 1998 BMW 330 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1998 BMW 330. (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 BMW 330. 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, 1998 BMW 330 (390 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 330 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
