2005 BMW 318 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 8 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 27 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (201 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
