1996 Audi S6 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 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, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1996 Audi S6. (322 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 220 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.6:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
