1981 Audi 100 vs. 1998 BMW Z3
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1981 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 1998 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 191 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
