2005 Audi A3 vs. 2000 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2000 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
