2008 Audi A6 vs. 1997 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 is newer by 11 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 155 more horse power than 2008 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 233 kg more than 2008 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 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 A6 (381 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A6 | 1997 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 3245 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 51 L |
