1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Audi A5
To start off, 2012 Audi A5 is newer by 15 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, 2012 Audi A5 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A5 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi A5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A5 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, 2012 Audi A5 (330 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2012 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 Audi A5 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2751 mm |
