2000 Audi S3 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2000 Audi S3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi S3 weights approximately 228 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Audi S3. (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi S3 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 51 L |
