2004 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 90 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW Z4. (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW Z4. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.8 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.5 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
