2002 Audi S3 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2002 Audi S3 is newer by 6 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 18 more horse power than 2002 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 57 kg more than 2002 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 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, 2002 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Audi S3 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | S3 | M3 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3246 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 222 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |