2008 Audi A3 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (229 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
