2008 Audi A3 vs. 1995 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1995 BMW M3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1995 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 2988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
