1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Audi A6
To start off, 2011 Audi A6 is newer by 15 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A6 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A6 weights approximately 322 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 2011 Audi A6 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A6 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, 2011 Audi A6 (440 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2011 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2011 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Audi A6 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4915 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1458 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2842 mm |
