2009 Audi R8 vs. 2002 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (518 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2002 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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, 2009 Audi R8 (530 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 2002 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 67 L |
