2001 Audi A6 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2001 Audi A6. (174 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 399 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6, 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, 2001 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
