2006 Audi S3 vs. 2004 BMW 730
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 730 (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 730 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2006 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW 730. 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, 2004 BMW 730 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 2004 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2004 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1790 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
