1996 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 13 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 180 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
