1997 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Audi A4
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (223 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 (300 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2004 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2004 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
