2005 BMW 530 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2005 BMW 530 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 6 more horse power than 2005 BMW 530. (254 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 530 weights approximately 247 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 2005 BMW 530 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, 2005 BMW 530 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 530. (300 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 530. 2005 BMW 530 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. 2005 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 530 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
