2006 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 4.9 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 | 1428 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
