2005 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 9 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 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2005 Audi A3.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Audi A3 (280 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
