2003 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 7 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 82 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8. 2003 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. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
