2004 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 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 141 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 75 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 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
