1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
