VS
At a Glance
Power
362hp @ 5000
473hp @ 6250
Torque
406lb-ft @ 1370
406lb-ft @ 2650
Engine
3.0 L/183cc
3.0 L/183cc
Choosing between the Audi A6 and the BMW M3 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Audi A6 delivers 362hp @ 5000 while the BMW M3 produces 473hp @ 6250. Pricing starts at $71,400 for the A6 and $78,400 for the M3. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
362hp @ 5000
473hp @ 6250
Torque (lb-ft)
406lb-ft @ 1370
406lb-ft @ 2650
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.0 L/183cc
3.0 L/183cc
Engine Layout
V
Inline
Cylinders
6
6
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Auto-Shift Manual w/OD
Manual
Number of Gears
7
6
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
20mpg
16 (2025)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
29mpg
23 (2025)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
19.3gal
15.6gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
Coming Soon
189.1in
Width (in)
Coming Soon
74.3in
Height (in)
Coming Soon
56.6in
Wheelbase (in)
Coming Soon
112.5in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4310lbs
3840lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
—
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Audi A6
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
A6
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Audi A6
Lower starting price ($71,400)
Few notable weaknesses
BMW M3
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the A6 or M3?
The A6 produces 362hp @ 5000 and 406lb-ft @ 1370 of torque while the M3 delivers 473hp @ 6250 and 406lb-ft @ 2650 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the A6 and M3?
The A6 starts from $71,400 and the M3 from $78,400. The A6 is cheaper by $7,000 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the A6 or the M3?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider