2006 Audi A8 vs. 2004 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,179 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2004 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 500 kg more than 2006 Audi A8.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 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 (430 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 2004 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4179 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.8 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
