2009 Audi A3 vs. 1989 BMW Z1
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1989 BMW Z1.
Because 1989 BMW Z1 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 1989 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1989 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
