2006 Audi A3 vs. 1995 BMW M5
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,794 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M5 (335 HP) has 138 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW M5 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW M5 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 1995 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3, 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, 1995 BMW M5 (400 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (280 Nm). This means 1995 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1995 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3794 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 335 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 251 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
