1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Audi TT
To start off, 2012 Audi TT 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 165 more horse power than 2012 Audi TT. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi TT.
Because 2012 Audi TT 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 TT 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi TT. (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi TT. 2012 Audi TT 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 TT will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2012 Audi TT | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z3 | TT |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1359 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2469 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
