2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,248 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 3248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
