2001 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 5 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 10 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2001 Audi A8 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, 2001 Audi A8 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 Audi A8 (450 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
