2006 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4, 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2006 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 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 | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
