2007 Audi A4 vs. 1997 BMW Z3
To start off, 2007 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2007 Audi A4. (217 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 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 62 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A4 | 1997 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3245 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 247 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
