1997 Audi A4 vs. 2006 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Audi A4 | 2006 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A4 | M3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3245 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 338 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 91 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |