1987 Audi 80 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1987 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1987 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Audi 80, 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 80. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1987 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1987 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 80 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
