1998 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3, 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
