1977 Audi 100 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1977 Audi 100. (136 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1977 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Audi 100, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Audi 100. (172 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Audi 100. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1977 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1977 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Audi 100 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
