2003 Audi A4 vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 Audi A4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2003 Audi A4. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A4, 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 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A4. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A4 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
