2008 BMW 118 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 11 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 2008 BMW 118. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 118 weights approximately 17 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 118. (300 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 118 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 118 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 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 | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
