2008 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 12 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 63 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4, 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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 328 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
