1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Audi S4
To start off, 2005 Audi S4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi S4 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi S4 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, 2005 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2005 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Audi S4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z3 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |
