1996 Audi A8 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 A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Audi A8. (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1996 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A8 | 2006 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | M3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3245 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 300 HP | 338 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 63 L |