1999 Audi R8 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1999 Audi R8 is newer by 2 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 3,596 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi R8 (610 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 1298 kg more than 1999 Audi R8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Audi R8 (705 Nm) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1999 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1999 Audi R8 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. 1999 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi R8 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 610 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 705 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1370 mm |
