2001 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 5 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 7 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
