2006 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Audi A5
To start off, 2011 Audi A5 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2011 Audi A5. (158 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2011 Audi A5. 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 A5, 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 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A5. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2011 Audi A5 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
