1997 Audi A6 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A6 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1997 Audi A6. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A6.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A6, 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A6. (310 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
