2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 2 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 119 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2006 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
