1994 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1994 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1994 Audi A8. (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1994 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1994 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Audi A8 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
