2007 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2007 Audi A4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2007 Audi A4. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A4 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A4, 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 A4 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
