2000 Audi S3 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2000 Audi S3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2000 Audi S3. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi S3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2000 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Audi S3 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Audi S3. (270 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi S3 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 63 L |
