2006 Audi A8 vs. 1986 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (445 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1986 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 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, 2006 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3. 2006 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1986 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 445 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
