1996 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 259 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
