1997 Audi A8 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 A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1997 Audi A8. 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 A8, 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 A8. (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 A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2006 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 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 |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
