2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (343 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 123 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW Z4. 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (495 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2006 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 343 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
