2001 Audi RS4 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 Audi RS4 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi RS4 (377 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi RS4 weights approximately 330 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 2001 Audi RS4 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, 2001 Audi RS4 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, 2001 Audi RS4 (449 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2001 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi RS4 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi RS4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi RS4 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | RS4 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 377 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
