2009 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 209 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
