1997 Audi A6 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A6 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 108 more horse power than 1997 Audi A6. (227 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A6 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2011 BMW Z4.
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, 1997 Audi A6, 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A6. (310 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2497 mm |
