2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 555 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
