1999 Audi S8 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1999 Audi S8 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 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S8 (247 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S8 weights approximately 450 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 1999 Audi S8 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, 1999 Audi S8 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, 1999 Audi S8 (330 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1999 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1999 Audi S8 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 S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Audi S8 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | S8 | M3 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4170 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 236 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |