2000 Audi A4 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2000 Audi A4 is newer by 3 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, 2000 Audi A4 (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi A4 weights approximately 80 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 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Audi A4, 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, 2000 Audi A4 (320 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2000 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A4 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
