2004 Audi A6 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Audi A6. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6, 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A6. (235 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
