1996 Audi A4 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4, 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2497 mm |
