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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 5700 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. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2005 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Audi A4, 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 (320 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (210 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
