2003 Audi A3 vs. 1997 BMW Z3
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1997 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 3245 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
