1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2013 Audi A3
To start off, 2013 Audi A3 is newer by 16 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) has 195 more horse power than 2013 Audi A3. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Audi A3 weights approximately 112 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2013 Audi A3 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, 2013 Audi A3 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2013 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4292 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1995 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
