2001 Audi A8 vs. 2006 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (355 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 340 kg more than 2006 BMW M3.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8, 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, 2006 BMW M3 (370 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Audi A8 | 2006 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | M3 |
Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3246 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7900 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |