1997 Audi A8 vs. 2000 BMW Z3
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3.
Because 2000 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2000 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 51 L |
