1996 Audi A3 vs. 2006 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 10 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 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP) has 238 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 521 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2006 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 | 2006 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 338 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |
