2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 207 kg more than 2003 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | Z4 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
