2007 Audi S8 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 Audi S8 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 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2007 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (328 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2007 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi S8 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 S8 (541 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S8 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 541 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
