2004 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 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 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 A8, 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 A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 51 L |
