2005 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 9 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (220 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 188 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2005 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (300 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 63 L |
