1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
