2002 Audi S3 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 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 192 more horse power than 2002 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 387 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 2009 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
