2006 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3, 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 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3. 2011 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
