2006 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 194 kg more than 2005 BMW M3.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1884 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
