2009 Audi RS6 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Audi RS6 is newer by 13 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 4,991 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi RS6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi RS6 (572 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (328 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi RS6 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi RS6 weights approximately 396 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi RS6 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, 2009 Audi RS6 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 RS6 (650 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi RS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi RS6 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | RS6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4991 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 572 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2028 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
