2006 Audi A8 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2006 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 415 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2006 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
