2003 BMW M3 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 8 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1995 BMW S3. (338 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
