2006 Audi A6 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi A6 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, 2006 Audi A6 (255 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 202 kg more than 2006 Audi A6.
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 A6, 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, 2006 Audi A6 (330 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A6 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3130 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
