1996 Audi A4 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 A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. 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 A4, 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 @ 4900 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A4 | 2006 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A4 | M3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3245 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 338 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7900 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |