1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 14 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 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (345 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 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, 2012 Audi A8 (800 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z3 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2992 mm |
