2001 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Audi A4
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4, 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, 2006 Audi A4 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW Z3 | 2006 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
