2007 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2007 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A8 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2007 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A8 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, 2007 Audi A8 (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A8 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1776 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
