2006 Audi A3 vs. 2010 BMW M3
To start off, 2010 BMW M3 is newer by 4 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 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW M3 weights approximately 355 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 2010 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, 2010 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
