2007 Audi S4 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 Audi S4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S4 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2007 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S4 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1795 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
