2008 Audi A3 vs. 2002 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z4 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2002 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2002 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2002 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
