2008 Audi S3 vs. 1992 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 Audi S3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW M3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 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 S3 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW M3. (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S3 | 1992 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
