2004 Audi A6 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6, 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, 2004 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
