2009 Audi A5 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Audi A5. (187 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A5 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5, 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 A5 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A5 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A5 | Z3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2926 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 275 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 16.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 51 L |