TSXautoXer

I just watched a British TV show tested Audi S4 and BMW M3. The host pick S4 over M3 for day to day driving.

Some interesting fact, S4 is slower in 0-60, most likely 1/4 mile as well, and It's heavier than M3. But it's about a sec faster on their test track.

Now, which one do you prefer? M3 or S4?

Remember, this has nothing to do with your preference on TSX, just pure car talk. If you wanna tell me "I'll buy the more reliable TSX and save the extra bucks", with all due respect, please F-off.

If you have a couple of minutes, share with us why you choose one over another too.

TSXautoXer

I'll start by making my decision first. I'll get the S4. The reason being I like the V8 rumble, the torque, the 4 door versatility, and the 4WD system. I also prefer the interior.

civic4982

I'm all about having the extra 2 doors and AWD. M3s are played out here in Austin. A ton of students have them.

atlatr

I'm going to have to say the M3. I'm not all that impressed with the new S4. Being a '01 S4 owner with a GIAC chip I don't see any benefits of the V8. I'm sure it sounds great but stock for stock the older S4s are faster. Throw in $500 for the chip and gain an extra 60hp!!
I am all for the extra 2 doors on the Audi but the back seat isn't much bigger than in the M3. I think the M3 is a better car especially in the long run for resale value.
My .02 cents
Todd

35kcdn

I vote for the S4 as well, 2 yrs ago I would of went the M3, but the availibilty of 2 more doors and AWD, make it a sport sedan vs Sports coupe. The spec showing that it was faster on the track vs 0-60 & 1/4 mile prove to me that AWD is a benefit in race/slalom conditions. This would only be accentuated in daily driving especially in hazardous conditions. Finally I think the s logo on the audi is equivalent to the M on the bimmers. You'll see a lot more M's on the road too.

fdl

Definately the M3...it would just be way more fun to drive.

chrisalberts

As ex-owner of a 99 M3 and an 01 S4 (Avant), current owner of an 02 M coupe (faster than either) I can say that I'm seriously considering trading the M Coupe for a new S4.

That said, I don't really think that the M3 and the S4 are true competitors. Some of the people who buy them consider both, but many are able to rule out one or the other for a variety of reasons (need 4 doors, need AWD, don't want a sedan, whatever).

If you live in a dry climate and you want the ultimate in performance, the M3 kills the S4. However, if you want something that looks a bit more subtle, has a nicer interior, 4 doors, better equipment or if you live somewhere were weather is an issue then the S4 becomes very attractive. Plus you're not giving up much performance, and if you experience wet roads it'll be faster than the M3 every time.

I'm looking at the S4 as our main family car, hence I really want a 4 door sedan and the M3 is not a consideration.

Just my POV.

C.

PS to the old S4 owner, apparently the new S4 handles better (hope you've got an aftermarket suspension), brakes better and has a dramatically improved 6 speed shifter all wrapped in the new shape and a nicer interior. Still not worth ditching your current car for, but don't think that the only difference is hp.

ClutchPerformer

BMW needs to bring back the 4-door M3. What the hell are they thinking?

Edit: They need to bring back the M-coupe, too.

TSXautoXer

Hmm, but S4 is faster around a track too...

Anyways, I love both of them.

larchmont

OK, I just fukd off.

BTW you must originally be from New York.

TSXautoXer

What makes you think so, Sir Larch?

bowersan

As the television show states - "In terms of sheer entertainment, (the S4) is like a dinner party... civilized conversation, glass of wine, a bit of Sade on the radio.... *smooth operator*.... Now the BMW, on the other hand, is like a 2am Ibiza beach BBQ."

Since I'm a classy guy, I'd go for the S4 without question.

But for all you boy-racers- take the M3.

J.

Crazytree

M3 has "small peepee" written all over it. I think it stands for M-3"

LeeLee

In that regard, S-4" isn't much of an improvement.

dnb

So S2000 would mean "big peepee", right?

larchmont

The best approach of all is the approach of our (pardon the expression) member, "7or8." Heh heh. He picks that for his name, then he says it doesn't mean anything, then when we "figure it out" (heh heh), he pleads ignorance. I love it.

And maybe it's even true what he's saying. But we're gonna pull his chains just the same.