2006 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 6 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 82 more horse power than 2006 BMW M3. (338 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | R8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 21.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
