2006 Audi A4 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (162 HP @ 1950 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 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 210 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A4. (225 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A4. 2006 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 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 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 1950 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
