2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2001 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4. 2001 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2001 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z4 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
