2007 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2012 BMW Z4. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2012 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW Z4. (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW Z4. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
