2006 Audi A3 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW Z3. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
