1996 Audi S6 vs. 2004 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 8 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, 1996 Audi S6 (322 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1996 Audi S6.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 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) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 2004 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.6:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.1 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 21.6 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
