1997 BMW S3 vs. 2013 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2013 Ford Mustang is newer by 16 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 5,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Mustang (653 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Mustang weights approximately 442 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, 2013 Ford Mustang (856 Nm) has 526 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2013 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2013 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 653 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 856 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2035 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
