Just a few days ago, Carwow did a comparison test between a B5 Audi RS4 Avant and an E46 BMW M3 CSL. It wasn’t the fairest of comparisons, as the M3 is a stripped-out, track-ready scalpel and the B5 RS4 is a fast, fun, do-it-all wagon. Still, it was interesting to see each car’s lineage and history in a comparison test on track. Now, Carwow is back with another BMW M/Audi Sport comparison test. This time, though, it’s an E92 BMW M3 GTS vs a B7 Audi RS4 Avant.
This test is just as lopsided as the last one, though. While these two cars are more similar than the last two, they’re still worlds apart. The B7 Audi RS4 Avant is still a usable, everyday wagon that just so happens to be fast and fun to drive. The E92 BMW M3 GTS is again a stripped-out, track-ready version of the standard E92 M3.
They do have one striking similarity, though — their engines. Under the hood of the Audi RS4 is a 4.2 liter naturally-aspirated V8 that makes 420 hp. The E92 M3 GTS uses a 4.4 liter naturally-aspirated V8 that makes 450 hp. Aside from having free-breathing, large-displacement V8s that both rev past 8,000 rpm, they’re quite different. The Audi has a six-speed manual and Quattro all-wheel drive while the M3 uses a seven-speed dual-clutch and rear-wheel drive. The Audi is lined with leather and comfort while the M3 is lightened, has racing buckets and a roll cage.
So which one is fastest? Find out in this latest Carwow video. We won’t spoil the whole thing for you, as you should watch the video because it’s really interesting, but needless to say the BMW M3 is the more lively car.
Off the line, the Audi RS4 is actually a bit faster thanks to its Quattro all-wheel drive grip. Even with launch control, the M3 can’t help but roast its rear tires off the line for far too long. So the Audi takes a bit lead in the standing drag race that the M3 can’t overcome.
Still, the BMW M3 is the sharper car because of its rear-drive chassis and stripped-out nature. Check the video out.
