2001 Audi A4 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 2001 Audi A4. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 515 kg more than 2001 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A4. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A4 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
