2006 Audi A3 vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 125 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 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 17.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
