2008 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 12 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 40 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 285 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, 2008 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
