2008 BMW 525 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 312 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (245 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525. 2008 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. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3201 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
