1996 Audi S6 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi S6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi S6 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Audi S6. (322 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi S6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 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 S6 (400 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.6:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 259 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 21.6 L/100km | 17.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
