1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Audi S3
To start off, 1999 Audi S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1999 Audi S3. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1999 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S3. (270 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1999 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z3 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
