2008 Audi A6 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2008 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A6 weights approximately 302 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2008 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 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, 2008 Audi A6 (370 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2008 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A6 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 86.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2730 mm |
