2006 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW Z1
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1.
Because 1988 BMW Z1 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 1988 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1988 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
