2009 BMW 335 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2009 BMW 335 is newer by 12 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, 2009 BMW 335 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2009 BMW 335.
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, 2009 BMW 335 (400 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 335 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 335 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
