1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Audi A4
To start off, 2012 Audi A4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2012 Audi A4. (211 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A4 weights approximately 337 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2012 Audi A4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A4 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A4. (349 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A4. 2012 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 64 L |
