1996 Audi A4 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 A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 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 313 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4.
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 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
