2006 BMW 525 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 9 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 70 more horse power than 2006 BMW 525. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 8 kg more than 2006 BMW 525. 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 525. (245 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 525. 2006 BMW 525 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. 2006 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 525 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 525 | S3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 330 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1368 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |