2006 Audi A8 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2011 BMW Z4.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 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, 2006 Audi A8 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW Z4. (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW Z4. 2006 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
