2006 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 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 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1655 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 | 5.8 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
