2004 Audi A4 vs. 1998 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4, 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (235 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1998 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 191 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
