2003 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Audi S3
To start off, 2004 Audi S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2004 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S3 weights approximately 38 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2004 Audi S3 | |
Make | BMW | Audi |
Model | M3 | S3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1779 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 222 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1423 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |