2006 Audi S3 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 259 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1385 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
