1996 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Audi S4
To start off, 2007 Audi S4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S4 weights approximately 163 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi S4 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, 2007 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2007 Audi S4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |
