1990 BMW Z1 vs. 2006 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1990 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1990 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (321 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW Z1. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW Z1 | 2006 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z1 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
