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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 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. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (316 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 5.7 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 | 1450 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
