2004 Audi A3 vs. 2000 BMW Z8
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW Z8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW Z8 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 299 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z8 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 BMW Z8 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 2000 BMW Z8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2000 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2000 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 73 L |
