2004 Audi A6 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 221 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6 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, 2004 Audi A6 (430 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2004 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 2303 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
