2006 Audi S4 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1990 BMW M3. (238 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 680 kg more than 1990 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.4 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
