2000 Audi S3 vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Audi S3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2000 Audi S3. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2000 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Audi S3. (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 63 L |
