2009 BMW M5 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2009 BMW M5 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 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M5 weights approximately 468 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. 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, 2009 BMW M5 (520 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2009 BMW M5 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. 2009 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M5 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M5 | S3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4999 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 520 Nm | 330 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1368 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |